im 







WA 




Class. 

Book 

Copyright^ . 



COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT. 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 

A Book for the Use of 

Students and Practitioners 

246 Pages 

With over 200 Halftone Illustrations from Original Photographs 

By GEORGE R. \yHITE, M.D., D.V.S. 

Graduate Columbian University {Veterinary Department), and University of 

Nashville (Medical Department), Teacher Surgical Restraint, Castration 

andSpaying, Chicago Veterinary College, Cincinnati Veterinary 

College and Alabama Polytechnic Institute (Veterinary 

Department), Author "Restraint of Domestic 

Animals," Etc. 



SECOND REVISED EDITION 



CHICAGO, 
THE AMERICAN VETERINARY PUBLISHING COMPANY 

19 2 






Copyrighted 1920 

by 

The American Veterinary Publishing Company 



'CI.A576251 
AUG 20 1920 



PREFACE TO SECOND EDITION 

The first edition of this work came from the press during the latter part 
of 1914. The entire edition, twenty-five hundred copies, was exhausted 
more than a year ago. Thanks are due, and are now extended to the veteri- 
nary profession of America and of all other English speaking countries for 
the hearty reception accorded it. Apologies are offered for several typo- 
graphical errors which appeared in that edition in spite of our best efforts 
to avoid them. We console ourselves with the belief that the initial issue 
of most other professional publications — some even by experienced authors 
— contain their proportion of errors, and that most of our readers were 
charitable enough to overlook them. 

It will be observed that this second edition contains considerable new mat- 
ter and some new and better illustrations, which we trust will improve and 
make the text more instructive. 

The author, without assistance, financed and published the first edition, 
but in the face of present post-world-war, unsettled conditions, he has hesi- 
tated, for more than a year, to undertake the publication of a new edition. 
However, without solicitation from any source — except, perhaps, from 
prospective purchasers — The American. Veterinary Publishing Company 
generously offered to shoulder full financial responsibility for a second edi- 
tion of "Animal Castration". This offer was made notwithstanding that 
the price of every item of expense incident to book publication is greatly 
inflated and all out of proportion to prices of normal times. If this publi- 
cation is valuable to the profession or to individuals comprising the pro- 
fession, credit for its appearance at this time is due the publisher. 

G. R. W. 

Nashville, Tennessee, 
June, 1920. 



PREFACE TO FIRST EDITION 

To those entrusted with the onerous task of castrating and spaying domes- 
tic animals, the scantness of modern literature — especially that printed in 
English and by American authors — dealing with the subject, must have 
always proved a matter of considerable embarrassment. 

This universally recognized lack of a well illustrated book on the im- 
portant subject of unsexing anima\s, has induced the author to write and 
publish this volume. 

It is offered with the desire and hope that it will — in a measure at least — 
close this wide gap in our English speaking literature. 

Twenty-one years' actual and active experience in city and rural prac- 
tice, as well as several years as a teacher of this particular subject, leads me 
to believe that a textbook well illustrated, written by an American, based on 
American methods, will be acceptable to the student and practitioner who 
really has a desire to become proficient in performing the operations of 
castration and spaying. The illustrations and text are for the most part 
original. The methods described are those employed in actual everyday 
practice by the author. 

In presenting this volume, the author's only regret is that during its 
preparation he was State Veterinarian of Tennessee, and did not have the 
time at his disposal to insure the best authorship. Hence he is constrained 
to appeal for lenient judgment and criticism on the book prepared under 
no common stress of duties — administrative, professional, social and 
political. 

George R. White. 



FOREWORD 



INSTRUMENTS 

The first essential to the proper performance of the operations of castra- 
tion and spaying is instruments of proper design made from material of 
unquestioned quality. 

Instruments of the same external appearance — which usually means noth- 
ing more nor less than finish, and finish in turn merely means polish and 
plate — may vary greatly in quality of material and workmanship. 

Never purchase cheap instruments at any price, as they are not satisfac- 
tory or dependable. The best are none too good, as oftentimes an instru- 
ment will make or unmake a man's reputation as an operator. 

If these operations — castration and spaying — are to be done neatly and 
with dexterity, antiquated instruments have no place in the operative tech- 
nic. Nothing conduces quite so much to awkwardness in operating and an 
all around "bunglesome job" as do instruments of improper construction. 

There are numerous castrating and spaying instruments offered to the 
public, that are bad, and others worse than worthless for the purpose for 
which they are intended. The one admonition the author would offer above 
all others is to exercise extreme care and good judgment in selecting castrat- 
ing and spaying instruments. 

Most manufacturers of surgical instruments and their shop mechanics, 
have little or no conception or practical knowledge of the actual require- 
ments of the instruments which they make and sell. 

Unless the purchaser knows what he wants, he is at the mercy of the ig- 
norant manufacturer, and is liable to make mistakes in purchasing which 
will cause embarrassment later when actually engaged in operating. 

Remember that there are several grades and many designs of castrating 
and spaying instruments. Always call for "A grade," and see to it that 
you get exactly what you call for, and select the design best suited for your 
requirements. 

Numerous instruments are illustrated and described in the following 
pages. Where only one pattern of an instrument is shown, it means that 
in the author's opinion that particular instrument has advantages over all 
others and is the proper one to purchase. Where two or more instruments 
of the same character are shown, it means that the author has no prefer- 



4 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

ence and that both instruments are equally satisfactory ; either may be pur- 
chased without making a mistake. 

Each and every instrument illustrated in this volume possesses merit, and 
no mistake will be made in selecting any of them. Our object in thus illus- 
trating and describing the instruments is that the novice may have the ad- 
vantage of the author's more than a quarter of a century's experience in 
selecting and using this class of surgical instruments, and with the hope 
that the information herein contained may in a measure at least protect 
the inexperienced castrator from waking up later to the fact that he is in 
possession of a lot of useless "junk" which has been sold to him for cas- 
trating and spaying instruments. 

METHODS 

It will be further observed that only one method of operating is illus- 
trated and described; quite a revolution in this class of literature. All 
antiquated methods and operative technic have been purposely omitted in 
order to avoid confusion and embarrassment. The methods mentioned are 
those which most appeal to the author's fancy, and while he considers them 
the best, safest, and most satisfactory, he lays no claim to their being the 
only good methods, and is perfectly willing to accord to others the privilege 
of using other methods if they so desire without quarreling with them. 

RESTRAINT 

Restraint of domestic animals, in the broadest acceptation of the term, 
means much to the average busy, active practitioner of veterinary surgery. 

Each species of our domestic animals is endowed with one or more means 
of defense. These are oftentimes — in individuals of certain temperament — 
converted into weapons of offense. The horse will strike, kick and bite; 
the ox will gore and kick; the dog and hog will bite. It is these weapons 
of offense that we are called upon to control and overcome by restraint. 
These animals must be rendered harmless by the means of restraint which 
we have at hand. The particular method employed, of course, depends 
largely upon the animal and the degree of restraint necessary. 

While it is constantly found necessary to employ methods of animal re- 
straint, one should always employ them in as humane a manner as possi- 
ble. Humanitarian treatment is as essential here as elsewhere in the prac- 
tice of veterinary science. We should never take advantage of an animal 
when confined in order to cause torture or to inflict unnecessary pain of 
any kind. 

The surgeon is confronted with problems of restraint or some method of 
subjection almost every hour of each day of his professional career. 
Not only does the restraint problem confront and concern the surgeon, 



FOREWORD 5 

but his client and patient are also directly interested to a marked degree. 
The surgeon owes it to his client, his patient and himself to become profi- 
cient in properly and securely restraining animals for examination and 
operation. Without efficient means of restraint the surgeon is in constant 
danger of great bodily harm ; the animal in danger of self-inflicted injuries 
as a result of its own efforts at resistance, thereby causing the owner finan- 
cial loss, which can and should be avoided by proper methods. 

In order to cast and secure an animal properly and successfully, the 
operator should possess coolness, good judgment, and plenty of courage 
and confidence. He should retain his equilibrium in spite of any untoward 
accident or emergency which may chance to take place. Self-confidence 
and good judgment are both valuable assets in performing operations of 
the character which this book undertakes to illustrate and describe. The 
surgeon should get control and remain in control from the time the twitch 
is placed on the animal — preparatory to applying the hobbles or casting 
harness — until the animal is again on its feet. Experience and dexterity 
are not to be underrated in the operator who is to undertake the task of se- 
curing and properly confining the larger domestic animals. Do not allow 
yourself to become excited or unduly alarmed or aggravated should every- 
thing not move as smoothly as you expect or desire, for in so doing the 
surgeon is not in sufficient possession of his mental faculties to do justice 
to himself, his patient or his client. 

Perfect, or even good, surgery is impossible without perfect restraint. 
The surgeon's success depends largely upon the restraint method used. It 
is rare to see a surgeon handle a knife any more skillfully than he handles 
his restraint technic. Imperfect restraint means imperfect operation. 

The particular methods of restraint necessary for each operation and the 
details pertaining to same will be specifically described under the proper 
headings. G. R. W. 



ILLUSTRATIONS 



Abdominal Cavity of the Bitch 192 

Abdominal Cavity of the Cat 204 

Abdominal Incision in Boar Castration 105 

Abdominal Incision Closed by Interrupted Sutures in Boar Castration 107 

Abdominal Incision in Dog Castration 127 

Abdominal Incision in Sow Castration Closed by Interrupted Sutures 179 

Abdominal Incision and Removal of Ovary from Ewe 186 

Abdominal Organs of Dog 126 

Amputation of Ovary of Bitch : 19(i 

Animal Cast and Secured with Knowles' Casting Harness 51 

Belly Incision Closed by Interrupted Sutures 171 

Belly Incision in Sow Spaying 180 

Betz' Triple Crimp Emasculator 15 

Bitch Spaying, Flank Method 199, 200 

Broad Ligament of Bitch 191 

Bull Cast and Tied for Castration 87 

Calf Cast and Tied for Spaying Operation 168 

Canine and Feline Emasculator 123 

Caponizing Board 134 

Castrating the Colt 36, 37 

Castration of Boar Completed by Interrupted Sutures 114 

Castration of Bull in Standing Position 93 

Castration of the Mule 39, 40 

Clipping Knife, Scoop and Hook for Caponizing 136 

Closing of Incision in Dog Castration 129 

Colin's Scalpel for Mare Spaying 144 

Conkey's Self-Locking Buckle' Hobbles 12, 86 

Correct and Incorrect Position of Emasculator on the Spermatic Cord 22 

Cow Tied to Fence for Spaying Operation 154 

Curved Scissors >, 46 

Cystic Ovaries Removed from Sow 183 

Dunn's Ecraseur 53. 144 

Edema of Sheath after Castration 73 

Emasculator, Betz' Triple Crimp 15 

Emasculator, Dunn's 16 

Emasculator, Imperfectly Made 13 

Emasculaor, Perfectly Made 13 

Emasculator, Proper Position of 41 

Emasculator, Single Crimp , .-. 14 

Entering the Abdominal Cavity - 57 

Excision of Ovaries of Sow, Belly Method 181 

Excision of Ovaries of Sow, Flank Method 181 

Exuberant Granulations '" 

"Farmer" Miles' Hooked Castrating Knife 35 

Flank Incision Closed by Three Interrupted Sutures 95 

Flank Incision For Cat Spaying 205 

Generative Organs of Stallion 88 

Genital Organs of the Bitch 190 

Genital Organs of Cat 205 

Genitals of the Cow 155 

Genitals of the Dog 124 

Genital Organs of Ewe 1S5 

Genital Organs of the Hen 209, 210 

Genital Organs of the Mare 146, 147 

Genitals of the Sow , 178 

Groin Incision in Boar Castration 110 

Hasredorn's Needle 104 



ILLUSTRATIONS / 

Hair Clipper 159 

Hermaphrodite Horse j. 65 

Hydrocele , 83 

Hydrocele in Mule , 80 

Hydrocele Removed by Ecraseur 82 

Hydrocele Showing Skin Incisions , 81 

Incision Closed by Interrupted Sutures 165, 167 

Incision in Bitch Spaying 195 

Incision in Calf Spaying, Belly Method 169 

Incision Through Vaginal Roof in Spaying Cow 156 

Inguinal Hernia 43 

Incisions in Ram Castration 119, 120 

Internal Abdominal Ring Closed with Purse-String Suture 113 

Intra-Inguinal Cryptochid 62 

Jamison's Spaying Knife - - 161 

Knowles' Casting Harness 50 

Mare Confined by Hippo Lasso 149 

Method of Making Incisions in Bull Castration 91 

Miles' Caponizing Knife and Spreaders 135 

Miles' Colt Hobbles Applied 32, 33, 34 

Miles' Forceps for Caponizing 136 

Miles' Palm Needle 162 

Miles' Ridgling Spreader 52 

Mooy's Needle 162 

Muscular Fibers of Internal and External Oblique Muscles 166 

Nature's Method of Controlling Hemorrhage 20 

Operation for Inguinal and Scrotal Hernia 47 

Operative Technic of Bitch Spaying 197, 198 

Ovary Removed from Calf by Flank Method 168 

Peritoneal Cavity of Cryptorchid Horse (Colored Plates) between pp. 54, 55 

Peritoneum Perforator ,,i 53 

Position for Castrating Stallion in Standing Position 27 

Position of Finger in Opening and Entering the Inguinal Canal 56 

Position of Right Hand, Knife, Left Hand and Scrotum Prior to Making Incision in 

Castrating Stallion in Standing Position 30 

Posterior View of Stallion Undergoing Castration in Standing Position 28 

Paraphimosis After Castration 74 

Poulardizing, Process of 211, 212 

Protection of Wound After Bitch Spaying 201, 202 

Removal of Ovary from Calf by Belly Method 170 

Removing the Ovaries from a Mare j 149, 151 

Removing Testicle from Cord in Ridgling Operation 60 

Removing Testicle of Ridgling Bull with Emasculator 95 

Reproductive Organs of Bidl 86 

Restraint for Bitch Spaying 193, 194 

Restraint for Boar Castration 98, 99, 100 

Restraint for Cat Castration 131, 132 

Restraint for Cat Spaying i 206 

Restraint for Dog Castration 122 

Restraint for Fowl Caponizing 133 

Restraint for Mare Snaying in the Standing Position 143 

Restraint for Poulardizing 208 

Restraint for Ram Castration 116, 117 

Restraint for Soaring Sows 174, 175, 176, 177 

Restraint of Heifer for Flank Operation 158 

Ridgling Bull Confined for Castration 94 

Ridfflina: Operation 58, 59 

Richter's Needle-Holder 45 

Robinson's Knife 26 



8 ILLUSTRATIONS 

Ruptured Boar 108 

Sehirrous Cord 75, 76 

Sehirrous Cord Removed with Ecraseur 77 

Scrotal Hernia 44 

Scrotal Incision , 54, 55 

Scrotal Incisions in Boar Castration 102 

Scrotal Incisions in Dog Castration 125 

Scrotum and Sheath of Stallion 23 

Scrotum of Boar Ready for Operation 109 

Severing Ovary from Broad Ligament with Ecraseur 157 

Severing Ovary in Heifer Spaying 164 

Severing Spermatic Cord with Emasculator in Dog Castration 125, 128 

Severing Spermatic Cord in Ram Castration 121 

Severing Spermatic Cord with Emasculator , 24, 92 

Severing Spermatic Cord and Covering With Emasculator in Boar Castration. -.103, 106 

Skin Incision in Heifer Spaying 162, 163 

Skunk, Scent-Secreting Apparatus of 214 

Skunk, Incisions over Site of Anal Glands 216 

Skunk, Posterior Aspect of t 215 

Spaying Chute and Stocks 153 

Spaying Emasculator 159, 160, 161 

Spaying Speculum, Williams' and Paseley's 148 

Spermatic Cord and Coverings Severed with Emasculator 25 

Spring Spreaders for Caponizing 135 

Stallion, Cast with Conkey Self-Locking Hobbles 12 

Surgeon's Full Curved Needle , 189 

Suturing Fork * 161 

Swine and Sheep Emasculator , 101 

Testicle of Boar 104 

Testicle of Bull 89 

Testicle of Cat 132 

Testicle of Mule 42 

Testicle of Ram , 118 

Testicle of Ridgling Boar , 104 

Testicle of Stallion 19 

Testicle, Spermatic Cord and Internal Abdominal Ring in Boar Castration Ill 

Testicles of Fowl and Their Removal 137, 138, 139, 140 

Tetanus in Colt 18 Days after Operation , 68 

Vaginal Incision for Mare Spaying 150 

Uterine Sound 19° 

Vulsellum Forceps h 76 

White's Ideal Casting Harness - 218 

Williams' Castrating Knife 13» 26 

Williams' Rachet Spaying Ecraseur 144 

Wire Spring Spreader for Caponizing 136 

Wound Closure, Belly Method 182 

Wound Retractor 189 

Wound Suture in Ewe Spaying 187 



TABLE OF CONTENTS 

List of Illustrations 6 

PART I. 
CASTRATION. 

CHAPTER I. 

Castration of the Stallion i 12 

Objects and Indications; Age; Season; Preparations. Castrating in Recumbent 
Position — Restraint; Instruments; Anatomy; Control of Hemorrhage; Operative 
Technics After-care; Prognosis. Castration in Standing Posture — Warning ; Prep- 
aration of Patient; Advantages; Disadvantages. 

CHAPTER II. 

Castration of the Colt ,, 32 

"Farmer" Miles' Method; Instruments; Operative Technic. 

CHAPTER III. 

Castration of the Mule 39 

Objects and Indications; Operative Technic; Prognosis, After-care and Treatment. 

CHAPTER IV. 

Complications Encountered in Castration 43 

Inguinal and Scrotal Hernia; Restraint; Instruments; Operative Technic. Castra- 
tion of Cryptorchid — 1. Suprascrotal. 2. Intra-abdominal. 3. Intra-inguinal. 
4. Anomalous. Knowles' Casting Harness. Instruments. Operative Technic. 
Sequelae: Orchitis; Hermaphrodite. 

CHAPTER V. 

Sequelae of Castration ., 68 

Septic Infection; Tetanus; Prolapse of the Omentum; Prolapse of the Intestine; 
Injuries Resulting from Castration; Colic; Peritonitis; Azoturia; Post-operative 
Hemorrhage; Edema of Sheath; Paraphimosis; Schirrous Cord; Hydrocele! 
Exuberant Granulations. 

CHAPTER VI. 

Castration of the Bull 85 

Instruments; Anatomy; Recumbent Position; Standing Position. Cryptorchid Bull; 
Operative Technic. 

CHAPTER VII. 

Castration of the Boar 98 

Objects and Indications; Age; Preparation; Restraint; Anatomy; Instruments; 
Operative Technic; Cryptorchid Boar; Ruptured Boar. 

CHAPTER VIII. 

Castration of the Ram ,, 116 

Objects and Indications; Restraint; Anatomy; Disinfection; Operative Technic; 
After-care. 

CHAPTER IX. 

Castration of the Dog 122 

Indications; Object; Restraint; Instruments; Preparation; Operative Technic; 
Cryptorchid Dog. 



10 

(HAITI. It \. 

I kSTBATIOX OP THE ( ' A r !•'!! 

Indications; Restraint; Position; [nstrnments; After-care. 

( H \T1T.U XI. 

< VI-.VI/IM, 133 

History; Restraint; Objects; Selection of Breeds; Instruments; Anatomy: Opera- 
tive Technic. 

PART II. 
SPAYING. 

CHAPTER I 

Mark Spavins 149 

Objects; Indications; Restraint; Instruments; Anatomy; Operative Technic; 
Sequelae 

(II U'TKIi II. 

Cow, Hkih.k and C.uf Si-avim; 153 

Indication-: \.ge; Season; Restraint; Instruments; Anatomy; Operative Technic: 
Sequelae. 

CHAP! BR III. 

Sow SrATijre it:i 

Objects and Indication-: Preparation; Restraint; Instruments; Anatomy: Opera- 
tive Technic. 

HAPTER IV. 

Ewi Si' a vim; is.-, 

Objects and Indications; Restraint; Anatomy; Operative Technic. 

CHAPTER V. 

Hitch Si-avim; 1»" 

Indications; Preparation; Instrument-: Anatomy; Restraint. Sequelae r^ 1. Shock. 
2, Internal Hemorrhage. 8. Peritonitis. I. Hernia. 5. Anorexia, <i. Eventration. 
7. Recurrent Estrum. 8. Adhesions. 

CHAPTER VI. 

( AT Si' Wl Vi, 

Preparation; Anesthesia; Instruments; Anatomy. 

CHAPTER VII. 

I'ol I. \RI)IXIXO _ - 

Restraint; Selection of Breed; Anatomy; Operative Technic. 

CHAPTER VIII. 

DiuDoKi/i.vc, THK Ski vk •_'! 1 

Objects; Preparation; Restraint; Anatomy; operative Technic. 

CHAPTER IX. 

At thok's I in. m ( isi i M, Habvesb 218 



PART I. 



CASTRATION 

— Orehect my; excision of one or more testicles. The term 
"ration is also applied to the removal of ovaries from the female. B 
ever, when the word castration appears in this volume — with the exception 
of the title — it has reference to nusexiug the male animal. 

History — Castration is one of the most ancient of surgical operations 
upon animals. It was .ted and pra - s s ven cent ; 

before the Christian era. Time has not lessened its application or oseful- 

ss. In fact, during re its it has rapidly increased in popularity 

until now it - sidered one of the most useful and valuable operati 
in the whole domain of anin. - _ ery. 

I- is practiced without hesitancy upon all domestic and wild animals, 
and its economic value cannot b< -iuiated. 

The earlier modes of operating were as follows: Martelage, tearing, 
rsi d, tiring, bistournage. ligation and clamping. These an- 
cient methods were extremely painful, and by some considered cruel and 
inhumane. They have all been su] - ss painful and more modern 

ones, the most recent of which are emasculation, vasectomy, seel vaso- 
ligation and. lastly. - usion. recently advocated by Dr. Napoleon 
Berdozzi. of Italy. While the above have been mentioned simply from an 
historic standpoint, one of them. viz.. emasculation, si - prominently 

ay the best, most widely practiced and most satisfactory method of operat- 
ing, and on this account the emasculation method will be adhered to in all 
instances where it is applicable, in this work. 



CHAPTER I. 

Castration op the Stallion. 

Objects and Indications — While the operation is most often practiced 
as an economic procedure to increase the animal's value and usefulness to 
mankind, it is nevertheless valuable as a corrector of many acquired vices, 
such as masturbation, viciousness, etc. It is also indicated in impotency, 
some diseases of the penis, scrotum, spermatic cord, and testicle. Its ef- 
fect is both mental and physical. 

The operation has a decided tendency to render the animal quiet and 
docile and to alter the conformation in some material respects, such as 
lessening the development of the shoulders, chest, neck and withers. While 
on the other hand the development of the hind quarters is stimulated. 

Castrated stallions are known as geldings. 




1 — Stallion cast with Conkey. self-locking buckle hobbles. Leg P being 
drawn from over field of operation by rope R S. 



CASTRATION OP THE STALLION 13 

Age — Stallions may be safely castrated at any age provided they are 
in good physical condition. 

Season — Spring and early fall are the seasons of choice, but the opera- 
tion may be performed at any time by taking the necessary precautions to 
protect the animal from flies, inclement weather, etc. 




Fig. 2 — Williams' all-metal, stiff handle castrating knife. 

Preparation — The intestinal tract should be practically empty at the 
time of castration. This is attained by withholding food for twenty-four 
hours before operating. By heeding the above admonition the danger 
of rupturing internal viscera during the operation and of colic afterward, 
will be much lessened. 

CASTRATING IN THE RECUMBENT POSTURE 

Restraint — When it has been decided to cast the animal, one should, 
first of all, carefully survey the surroundings and select the most satisfac- 
tory location. Of course circumstances and existing conditions play an 




Fig. 3— A perfectly made emascu- Fig. 4— An imperfectly made and badly 
lator of good design. designed emasculator. 

important role in making a selection. When the weather will permit, 
there is no place better adapted to the operation than an open field or 
lawn. There one has ample room to manipulate the restraint technic with- 
out interruption. When the location has been selected, the next problem 
is the casting bed. The ideal operating mat or mattress is a plot of green 
grass upon smooth ground. Always avoid the manure heap or the rotten 
straw pile whenever possible. They are both hotbeds of all forms of bac- 
terial growth and are directly responsible for many cases of fatal septic 
infection. If one is forced to cast an animal indoors, one must make the 



14 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



best of the misfortune and devise means and methods to best overcome 
that handicap. Select the place — be it hallway, stall or operating room — 
where the most room is available. Then a proper bed must be prepared 
with tanbark, soft wood shavings, straw, hay, excelsior, sawdust, etc., or 
a specially constructed mattress or pad may be used. 

Lead the animal to the proper position, put on the twitch, apply the 
Conkey self-locking, buckle hobbles and cast it on the left side. (Fig. 1.) 

When cast, the off hind leg should be released from the hobble strap 
and with an 18-foot rope looped above the fetlock (P) and passed over the 
withers (Q) and under the neck, then back above the hock (R) the leg 




Fig. 



-A safe and satisfactory "single-crimp" emasculator. 



is drawn from over the field of operation. In this position, and thus re- 
strained, the largest stallion may be castrated without difficulty. 

INSTRUMENTS 

1. Knife — A properly constructed knife is the first essential instrument 
required in performing this operation. The Williams all-metal stiff-handle 
aseptic castrating knife (Fig. 2) is entirely satisfactory for castrating 
stallions in the recumbent posture. 

2. Emasculator — The only other instrument necessary is an emascu- 
lator for crushing the spermatic cord in such a manner as to assist nature 
in controlling hemorrhage. 



CASTRATION OF THE STALLION 



15 



There are many designs of emasculators on the American market ; how- 
ever, many of them are inferior and unsatisfactory, both in design and 
workmanship. In order for an emaseulator to perform the task for which 
it is intended it must first of all be constructed with straight cutting and 




Fig. 6 — The Betz triple-crimp emaseulator. (Front view.) 

straight crimping or crushing edges. (D, C, Fig. 3.) This simply means 
that the lower or female jaw must be on a straight line. When thus con- 
structed the cord is grasped and crushed before it is severed. Any emaseu- 
lator made with curved cutting and curved crimping edges (A, B, Fig. 4). 




Fig. 7 — The Betz triple-crimp emascailator. (Back view.) 



which means that the lower or female jaws are curved, is not dependa- 
ble in controlling hemorrhage, hence is unsafe and unsatisfactory. Fig. 5 
illustrates a "single-crimp" emaseulator of proper design and good con- 
struction. 

The triple-crimp emaseulator is somewhat safer in controlling hemor- 
rage than the single-crimp instrument, as the latter crushes the,, cord in 
three directions. The author has used a triple-crimp instrument for sev- 



16 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



eral years with good results. Many of the triple-crimp emasculators now 
on the market are imperfectly constructed and unsatisfactory in that not 
enough space has been left between the male (upper) crushing plate and 
the female (lower) plate — when the instrument is closed — to accommodate 
the cord of a large stallion. 

Figs. 6 and 7 illustrate the Betz triple-crimp emasculator. This instru- 
ment is properly designed and well constructed. Of the several different 
makes of triple-crimp instruments now on the American market, the Betz 
emasculator is absolutely the only one which the author can conscien- 




Fig. 8 — Dunn's safety emasculator. 

tiously indorse and recommend. All the others are defective in some im- 
portant particular. 

The latest improved and possibly the instrument by which the most 
perfect spermatic cord hemostasis is accomplished — regardless of age and 
size of the animal — is Dunn's safety emasculator (Fig. 8). 

The advantage which this instrument possesses over all others consists 
of a beveled extension to the crushing (female) jaw. By means of this 
beveled-extension feature the spermatic cord is drawn into the space be- 
tween it and the upper blade and gradually compressed before the crush- 
ing and cutting is done. 

This simply means that when the instrument is closed on the cord, the 
stump of the cord itself is affected by all degrees of crushing, from barely 
being touched at the top of the beveled portion of the lower blade to being 
completely severed — by crushing and cutting — at the lower part of the 
upper blade. 

Handled in this manner the stump of the cord is fairly well sealed so 
that primary hemorrhage from it will be slight. The Dunn Safety Emas- 
culator must be used in order to be properly appreciated. 



CASTRATION OF THE STALLION 17 

1 Anatomy — A comprehensive knowledge of the anatomy of the inguinal 
and scrotal regions is imperative if a man is ever to be anything like a 
thrilling success in performing the various necessary operations that are 
to be described later. However, on account of the limited space at my 
disposal it will be impossible to go into minute detail here. For complete 
and detailed anatomical description the reader is respectfully referred to 
Sisson's, Chaureau's, McFadyean's, and Strangeways' textbooks on veteri- 
nary anatomy. 

Scrotum — This is a sac or bag made up externally of a layer of skin 
which has been continued from the sheath, abdomen and flanks. This skin 
is smooth, soft and hairless compared with the other portions of the in- 
tegument. The scrotum consists of two parts divided by a longitudinal 
raphe (median line). Below the skin is the dartos which forms the scrotal 
tunic proper, and consists of thin elastic tissue and muscle. The dartos 
is a continuation of the abdominal fascia. Under the dartos is the sper- 
matic fascia which is a continuation of the external oblique muscle. This 
muscle is attached to the external abdominal ring. Inside is the cremas- 
teric fascia, an expansion of the cremaster muscle which passes through 
the inguinal canal over the cord and surrounds the testicle. Deeper we 
have the funnel-shaped infundibuliform fascia which originates at the in- 
ternal abdominal ring. This fascia is simply a sheath over the testicle, the 
cord and their tunics. 

Inguinal Canal — This canal is situated obliquely between the crural 
arch and the internal oblique muscle. The arch forms its posterior, and 
the muscle its anterior wall. It is compressed laterally, and through it 
pass the spermatic cord and the pudic artery. Its external orifice is termed 
the external abdominal ring. This ring is oval in shape and its direction 
is backward and upward. The internal abdominal ring is a small aperture 
in the abdominal wall and is situated at the uppermost part of the inguinal 
canal, which is eight to ten inches above the external abdominal ring. The 
contents of the inguinal canal pass through the internal abdominal ring 
in making their exit from the abdominal cavity. 

Sheath — The sheath is a loose conglomeration of skin extending from the 
scrotum forward, and contains the free portion of the penis. The anterior 
loose double fold of the sheath is known as the prepuce or foreskin, which 
is corrugated to accommodate the penis during erection and protrusion. 
Opening into the sheath are ducts from the glandulae odoriferae which se- 
crete an odorous matter peculiar to the sheath. The sheath is suspended 
from the abdominal walls by suspensory ligaments. 

Spermatic Cord — The testicle is suspended in the scrotum by the sper- 
matic cord which migrates through the inguinal canal from the abdominal 
cavity to the scrotum. The following structures enter into its formation: 



18 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



Spermatic veins, spermatic artery, nerves, vas deferens, lymphatics, cre- 
master muscle and tunica vaginalis. THe vas deferens is situated in the 
posterior part of the cord and is enclosed in a special fold detached from 
the inner surface of the tunica vaginalis. 

Testicle — The testicle is a compound tubular gland, ovoid in form, sus- 




Fig. 9— -Internal and external generative organs of the stallion. A. Scrotum; fc5. 
skin; C, tunica vaginalis; D, dartos; E. cremaster muscle; F, left vas deferens; 
G, bulbous portion of vas deferens; H, vesicula seminalis; I. prostate gland; J.Cow- 
per's gland; K, sheath; L, meatus urinarius; M, retractor muscle of penis; N, ac- 
celerator muscle surrounding urethra; O, erector penis muscle; P, glans penis; 
Q. corpus cavernosum; R, right internal abdominal ring; S. left internal abdominal 
ring; T. symphysis pubis; U, peritoneal fold through which the spermatic blood- 
vessels and nerves pass; V. right vas deferens; W, bladder; X. rectum. 



pended by the spermatic cord and occupying space in the scrotum, in- 
guinal canal or abdominal cavity. When in either the scrotum or the in- 
uuinal canal it is contained in a sac known as the tunica vaginalis. 



CASTRATION OP THE STALLION 



19 



The testicles vary much in size in different subjects and are often of 
unequal size in the same individual. The epididymis (D, Fig. 10) is an 
elongated body extending along the upper border of the testes (A). It 
consists of a body (D), a head or globus major (B), and a tail or globus 
minor ( C ) . 

Vas Deferens — The vas deferens is a firm hard tube which, after leaving 
the globus minor, ascends the back of the spermatic cord through the ex- 




Fig. 10 — External view of left testicle and speimatic cord. A, Testes; B, globus, 
major; C, globus minor; D, body of epididymis; E. F. spermatic cord. 



ternal abdominal ring, inguinal canal, and internal abdominal ring to the 
abdominal cavity, where it enters the pelvis, passing to the antero-lateral 
aspect of the bladder, where it is joined by the duct of the vesicula semi- 
nales. This union of ducts takes place in the vicinity of the prostate gland. 

NATURE'S METHOD OP CONTROLLING HEMORRHAGE 

It is well to always bear in mind that nature is a great factor in con- 
trolling arterial hemorrhage. To understand exactly what part nature 
plays when an artery is severed is knowledge which is never harmful to the 
surgeon, to say the least. The following occurs as soon as an artery is 
severed: (1) Contraction of the mouth of the vessel (B, Fig. 11) ; (2) re- 
traction of the vessel into its sheath (C, Fig. 11) ; (3) clot formation (D, 
Fig. 11) ; (4) syncope. 

The function of the emasculator is to assist nature in preventing pri- 
mary or secondary hemorrhage. This is done by crushing the cord which 
crimps or closes the spermatic artery, making the field more favorable for 
clot formation. Never place an emasculator on a cord in any position ex- 
cept at a right angle to the cord (Fig. 12). If the cord is severed at any 
other angle (Fig. 13) fatal primary hemorrhage is liable to occur. 



20 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



Warning — Before beginning to operate always carefully examine the 
animal for inguinal and scrotal hernia (rupture), abnormalities in devel- 
opment, and diseases of the scrotum, testicle and cord. It is also well to 
look out for constitutional diseases which would have a tendency to en- 
clanger the life of the animal or interfere with convalescence. Never cas- 
trate an animal if it is affected with strangles, influenza, pleurisy, pneumo- 
nia, bronchitis, catarrhal fever, or purpura hemorrhagica. Be careful in 
casting and tying and above all satisfy yourself that the testicles are ac- 
tually in the scrotum. 

Sterilization of Instruments — If good results are to be attained all in- 
struments should be sterilized by boiling for fifteen to twenty minutes; 
after boiling, immerse them in a porcelain bowl or granite pan containing 
one tablespoonful of either Lysol or Liquor Cresolis Compositus (U. S. P.) 







Fig. 11 — Diagrammatic illustration showing three of nature's methods of con- 
trolling arterial hemorrhage. A, Severed artery; B. contraction; 
C, retraction; D, clot formation. 

to each quart of water. In the absence of the above, carbolic acid in two 
per cent solution is permissible. Where there are several animals to be 
operated upon it is not practicable nor is it necessary or desirable to boil 
the instruments between operations. However, they should be washed and 
placed back in the antiseptic solution. 



CASTRATION OF THE STALLION 21 

Cleansing Operator's Hands — The operator's hands should be thoroughly 
washed with soap and warm water — using a scrub or nail brush — before 
beginning castration, and they should be washed in an antiseptic solution 
between operations. The cleaner the operator is in his work the fewer cases 
of sepsis he will have to follow. 

Operative Technic — After the animal is cast and tied and the instru- 
ments and hands of the operator prepared, the field of operation and the 
surrounding parts should be thoroughly washed with Lysol or Liquor 
Cresolis (U. S. P.), one tablespoonful to each quart of water. I con- 
demn in the strongest and most emphatic terms washing the sheath at 
the time of castrating, or undertaking in any manner to cleanse the interi- 
or of the sheath. Washing the sheath at or immediately before castration 
will not only contaminate the field of operation and thereby increase the 
danger of sepsis, but it invariably encourages the early development of 
aggravated cases of edema and often times paraphimosis. The sheath 
should be washed several days before operating or it should be let alone 
until after the animal has completely recovered. 

With the animal, instruments and operator's hands prepared, the scrotal 
incision is made by grasping with the left hand the scrotum above both 
testicles, and with two bold strokes of the knife cut through the skin of the 
scrotum and testicular coverings without hesitation. Expose both testicles 
to view. The larger the incision the better the results. The incisions should 
not be less than three and one-half to four inches long and about three- 
quarters to one inch on each side of the raphe (median line) and parallel 
to it (Fig. 14). 

The testicles are now exposed. Grasp one of them with the left hand, 
being careful not to touch the cord above where it is to be severed. Place 
the emasculator on the cord, being careful to see that the crushing side is 
next to the scrotum. Stretch the cord at right angles to the animal by 
making from two to three pounds — depending upon the size of the horse — 
traction on the testicle, at the same time pushing the emasculator well 
against the body and at right angles to the cord, then close the instrument 
quickly and firmly until the cord and all its coverings are severed as close 
to the scrotum as possible. (Fig. 15.) 

As soon as the cord is severed, quickly release it and hasten to remove 
the opposite testicle. It is a useless waste of time and energy to allow the 
cord to remain in the instrument for several minutes, as some operators 
advocate. The quicker the cord is released the less the pain and the quicker 
the blood will clot about the mouth of the artery. By the time the jaws 
of the ! emasculator have come together the instrument has done all to the 
cord that it can possibly do. Why procrastinate in removing it? 



22 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

By reference to Fig. 16 one may observe the correct position of the 
emasculator on the cord; also exactly what structures are severed. 

The all too common practice of "cord dissection" is also an unnecessary 
and uncalled for waste of the operator's time and energy, to say nothing 




Fig. 12 — Correct position of emasculator on the spermatic cord. 

of the additional pain inflicted upon the patient as a result of prolonged 
surgical interference. 

After -Care — A small percentage of stallions after castration will be- 
come unusually and uncomfortably restless and suffer what appears to be 
excruciating pain. Sometimes this pain is intra-abdominal and sometimes 
not. In such cases fluid extract Cannabis Indica should be administered 




Fig. 13 — Incorrect position of emasculator on the spermatic cord. 

in ounce doses at two-hour intervals. The animal should be observed fre- 
quently for the appearance of secondary hemorrhage and other sequela? 
that may arise. The diet should be limited, and plenty of exercise allowed. 
It is best for the animal to run at pasture during convalescence. Endeavor 
to keep them away from the stable and barnyard manure. If the lips of the 
incisions should adhere to the extent of stopping free drainage from the 



CASTRATION OF THE STALLION 



23 



scrotum, the parts should be thoroughly washed and reopened by forcing 
one or more clean fingers through the scrotal incisions. In some instances 
it becomes necessary to "open up" for drainage every two days for six 
or seven days. However, so long as the wounds are draining this is un- 
necessary. 

After castration it is not necessary to protect stallions, colts and mules 
from flies, as this class of animals prevent fly contamination of the scrotal 
wounds by the free and well-directed use of their tails. Even in the midst 
of "fly time" maggots do not develop in their serotinus. 

Contrary to the teachings of some, the author's experience would indi- 




Fig. 14 — General external view of scrotum and sheath. AA, incisions % 
on each side of median line, 4 inches long and parallel to the line. 



inch 



cate that warm showers and even heavy rains on animals after castration 
are not harmful and are to be greatly preferred over allowing the animals 
to remain in the barn and barnyard in constant danger of wound contami- 
nation from manure, dirt, etc. 

Treatment of the various sequelae of castration will be discussed in sub- 
sequent pages. 

Prognosis — Under parallel conditions and surroundings there appears 



24 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



to be very little or no more danger in castrating aged stallions than colts. 
However, on the other hand, when we consider that a large percentage of 
stallions are affected with cord, scrotal, testicular and other diseases which 
must be taken into consideration in comparing the clanger of castrating 
stallions with that of colts, we are constrained to state that the danger to 
old stallions far exceeds that to younger animals. 

CASTRATION OF THE STALLION IN STANDING POSTURE 

Objects and Indications — See page 12. 

Age — Any time after the testicle has descended into the scrotum, pref- 
erably two years old and up to aged stallions. 




Fig. 15 — Severing spermatic cord with the emasculator. A, left testicle; 
B, right testicle; C, emasculator applied to the spermatic cord. 



Season — See page 13. 

Restraint — A well-made and properly applied twitch in the hands of a 
fearless and physically strong assistant. 

Instruments — 1. Emasculator. (Figs. 5, 6, 7 and 8.) 2. Knife. It is 
necessary to have a knife with a sharp point and devoid of "belly" in 
order that it may be easily thrust into the testicle. Robinson's castrating 
knife (Fig. 17) and Williams' castrating knife (modified) (Fig. 18) are 



CASTRATION OF THE STALLION 



25 



probably the most satisfactory ones for performing this operation. Robin- 
son's knife is the author's favorite. 

The extremely sharp point, short cutting surface and roughened handle 
of the Robinson knife are its meritorious features. The author's modifica- 
tion of the Williams castrating knife makes ±c a desirable instrument for 
castrating in the standing posture. It will be observed, by comparing this 




Fig. 16 — Spermatic cord and its coverings severed with the emasculator. 
I. Body of epididymis; J. tunica vaginalis; K, incised portion 
of tunica vaginalis retracted on cord; L, spermatic cord. 



knife with the original Williams' (Fig. 2), that the "belly" has been 
ground out and the point sharpened in order to facilitate thrusting it into 
the testicle. 

Anatomy — See page 17. 

Warning — Before undertaking to operate take time and precaution to 
satisfy yourself on the following points : 



26 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

1. That the animal is not of a disposition or temperament that wo.uld 
contra-indicate operating in the standing- posture. 

2. That the testicle is actually in the scrotum. 

3. That no hernia is present. 

4. That the animal is not affected with such local diseases of the scro- 
tum, testicle or cord as would contra-indicate the operation. 




Fig. 17 — Robinson's knife. 

5. That he is not suffering from any specific constitutional disease 
which would cause the operation of castration by any method to hazard 
his life. 

6. That you have a dependable — preferably an experienced — assistant 
in charge of the twitch, and be sure the twitch is a good one. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — See pages 
20, 21. 

Preparation of Patient — At first thought it would be considered proper 
to disinfect the field of operation by washing with one of the many excel- 
lent antiseptic preparations. However, experience and close observation 




Fig. 18 — Williams' castrating knife (modified). 

lead me to state that the advisability and practicability of undertaking 
the disinfection of the field of operation at this particular juncture — after 
the twitch is applied — is, to say the least, debatable. Aseptic or even anti- 
septic surgery would suggest it, but the author is willing to chance run- 
ning the gauntlet of criticism by going on record as opposing disinfection 
of the operative field. His only reason for so doing is simply because of 
the facl that if a man is to do a satisfactory and successful operation with 
the animal in the standing posture, it is imperative that the operation be- 
gin as soon as the twitch is applied and end at the earliest possible moment, 



CASTRATION OP THE STALLION 



27 



otherwise the twitch as an implement of subjection is not a success and, 
of course, the violent struggles and efforts to escape on the part of the 
animal would make the operation a failure. I realize that in making the 
above statement I run counter to some eminent authorities, but since I 
have never yet seen a. single successful operator on stallions in the stand- 
ing posture who procrastinated to the extent of disinfecting the field of 
operation immediately prior to operating, I am ready and willing to suffer 




Pig. 19 — Side view showing position of patient and operator castrating in 

the standing posture. 



the consecpiences. Such procedure is not practicable, neither is it necessary 
or even desirable. If the operator's hands are clean and his instruments 
sterile, there is not nearly the danger of septic infection from the un- 
washed scrotum that there is from a bunglesome and imperfect operation 
on account of struggles on the part of the animal occasioned by delay in 
beginning and finishing the operation. 

Operative Technic — With the twitch applied and the animal forced into 
the corner of a box stall or fence, the operator approaches from the left 
side — if he be right-handed — at the same time instructing the assistant, who 



28 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



is holding the twitch, to at all hazards keep the animal forced well back 
into the corner. The operator stands slightly ont of range of a kick, with 
his head and shoulders firmly pressed into the left flank of the animal 
(Fig. 19). 

With the left hand grasp the scrotum firmly above both testicles, at the 
same time do not underestimate the strength of the cremaster muscles. 

Expect to keep your scrotal grasp regardless of the maneuvers or antics 




Fig. 20 — Posterior view of stallion while undergoing castration in standing posture. 

A. Scrotum B, knife. 



CASTRATION OF THE STALLION 29 

of the animal. Since you have already agreed with your assistants to hold 
the scrotum as long as he holds the twitch you are in honor bound to do 
so, and by so doing you will come out victorious in nineteen out of twenty 
attempts. With the knife in the right hand, select a point well forward 
on the scrotum, then quickly jab the knife point into the testes to the depth 
of about one inch; now with a quick, bold sweep of the knife backward 
make a slash sufficiently large to expose the testicle, or a more explanatory 
term would be, "drop" the testicle from the scrotum. Before releasing 
your hold on the scrotum, the opposite testicle should in like manner be 
dropped from it. The two slashes should be made about one inch to the 
right and one inch to the left of the median line and parallel to it. You 
now grasp with your left hand either of the testicles and make downward 
traction on the spermatic cord, varying from one to five pounds, depending 
upon the age and size of the animal. Then with the emasculator — which 
is handed to you by a second assistant, or better still, carried in a spe- 
cially constructed pocket in your union-alls — sever the spermatic cord as 
high in the inguinal canal as possible, after which remove the opposite tes- 
ticle in the same manner and release the animal. 

If you have been dexterous and have not "loafed on your job" you have 
consumed the whole of six to ten seconds' time. However, if you have 
been engaged as long as fifteen or twenty seconds you need have no re- 
morse of conscience, as oftentimes it takes — what otherwise would be con- 
sidered a fairly good veterinary surgeon — as long as twenty minutes to 
finally succeed, after much effort and a great fight, in removing both tes- 
ticles from a stallion in the standing posture, and some, even after gradu- 
ation and many years' experience in practice, cannot do it at all. 

Prognosis, Care and Treatment — See page 23. 

Sequelae — See under proper heading in subsequent pages. 

Advantages of Operating in Standing Posture — (1) Conservation of time 
and energy on the part of the operator, as it is possible for an experienced 
and dexterous operator to castrate a stallion in the standing position in 
six to fifteen seconds' time, provided the animal behaves well. Whereas in 
the recumbent posture it requires from six to fifteen minutes to cast, tie 
and castrate. It is much easier on the operator to castrate in the standing 
posture, as less work and exertion are required. 

(2) Safety and comfort to the patient, since the danger of casting and 
tying is obviated and the animal is not exerted or "heated up" to the 
extent he would be were he cast, tied and castrated in the recumbent pos- 
ture. 

(3) By castrating in the standing posture — provided it is done with 
dexterity — the surgeon makes a favorable and lasting impression upon his 
client, an impression which will not wear off. 



30 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



(4) Since the operator is not called upon to handle dirty ropes, etc., 
immediately before operating and the operative field itself is not on or in 
close proximity to the manure and dirt — as is the case in the recumbent po- 
sition — less wound contamination takes place. 

Disadvantages — (1) Danger to the operator has been heralded to the 
four winds as an argument against castrating stallions in the standing 
posture. The author's twenty-five years' experience with operating in 
both the standing and recumbent postures leads him to believe, in fact 
know, that the danger to the operator has been highly colored and much 
exaggerated with reference to castrating in the standing posture, unless 
the operating surgeon be a novice or an extremely awkward and careless 
person. Of course it could not reasonably be expected that everyone can, 
even by time and practice, become an adept at such an undertaking. In 
order to be a success it is necessary for the operator to possess a level head, 
steady nerve, plenty of self-confidence, and more than average courage, 
together with a reserve of physical strength and activity. He should re- 
tain his equilibrium in spite of any untoward accident or emergency which 




Pig. 21 — Side view with animal in standing posture showing positions of 
right hand, knife, left hand and scrotum prior to making the incisions. Observe 
that the knife is thrust into the testicle well forward on the scrotum. The incision 
is made by a single sweep of the knife backward. 



CASTRATION OF THE STALLION 31 

may diance to occur. Good judgment is never amiss at any stage of the 
operation. 

The author has never been kicked or injured in any way while castrat- 
ing stallions in the standing posture. He cannot say as much regarding his 
experience in operating in the recumbent posture, for many is the kick 
he has received while applying the hobble straps, and a few while releasing 
the animal. 

(2) The difficulty of securing the testicles has been urged against the 
standing operation. Such embarrassment is never encountered if the tes- 
ticle has descended into the scrotum, and the mere fact of the testicle not 
being in the scrotum is a contra-indication for operating in the standing 
posture. By all means and at all hazards cast this class of animals and 
castrate them in the recumbent posture. 

(3) Prolapse of the bowel or mesentery from the scrotal incision on 
account of previously existing scrotal or inguinal hernia. A careful man- 
ual examination of the scrotal region prior to operating will obviate such 
embarrassment to the operator and danger to the patient. If you decide 
to operate in the standing posture make it a routine practice to examine 
the scrotum prior to operation. 

(4) Impossibility of operating upon many wild and vicious animals. 
We must admit that not all animals can be castrated in the standing pos- 
ture, and foolish indeed would be the surgeon who would undertake such a 
hazardous and impossible task. When you encounter an intractable ani- 
mal, have no hesitancy in casting and operating in the recumbent posture. 
Do not attempt the dangerous, the impracticable or the impossible. Exer- 
cise a little good judgment here as well as elsewhere in the daily affairs of 
life. 



CHAPTER II. 



CASTRATION OF THE COLT 



Definition — What is here meant by castration of colts is nn sp yin g male 
animals of the equine species less than twenty months of age. 

Objects and Indications — Same as for the stallion. (See page 12.) 
Age — The testicle does not usually descend into the scrotum to a no- 
ticeable degree until the colt is at least eight or ten months old. F'jom the 
standpoint of danger the earlier the operation the safer. From the stand- 




Fig. 22 — Miles' colt hobbles applied — First position. 



point of development and symmetry it is not well to operate too early. 
Viewing the problem from every angle, the preferable age at which to cas- 
trate a colt is ten to twelve months. However, it may be done earlier or 
later. 

Season — Spring and early fall are the seasons of choice. 

Preparation — Same as for the stallion. (See page 13.) 

Restraint — Since colts should usually be castrated in the recumbent pos- 



CASTRATION OF THE COLT 



33 



ture — primarily on account of the uncertainty of the descent of the tes- 
ticle into the scrotum — it is necessary to cast and tie them. Of all the 
casting- harness and hobbles used for this class of operation there is no 
doubt but; that the Miles colt hobbles possess many advantages over all 
others. Hence the Miles method of casting colts is recommended and will 
be described. 

"Farmer" Miles' Method of Casting a Colt — Fig. 22 represents the 
Miles colt hobbles applied (first position). Miles' hobbles consist of four 
loop hobbles and a main rope. The material used in making the 




Fig. 23 — Miles' colt hobbles — Second position. 



loops may be either rawhide (plaited), leather, or rope. Thess 
hobbles are each from fifteen to eighteen inches long and are ap- 
plied by looping. The main rope is a three-fourths inch cotton rope, 
eighteen feet long. Upon one end of the main rope is a two-inch metal 
"D." This main rope is also used as the master hobble. It will be observed 
that there is one hobble rope on each hind pastern and two hobble ropes 
on the off fore leg — one around the pastern and the other just below the 



34 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



knee. The main rope is applied around the pastern of the near fore leg 
(F). It is now passed across through the hobble ring on the off fore 
pastern (K), then backward to the off hind pastern (L), thence across to 
the near hind pastern (M), and back to the hobble ring (N) below the off 
knee. The object of this arrangement of the ropes (two hobbles on the off 
fore leg) is so that when traction is made on the free end of the main rope 
(0) the off fore foot is raised or lifted off the ground. This in itself 
unbalances an animal and puts it at a decided disadvantage, besides by 




Fig. 24 — Miles' colt hobbles — Third position. 



lifting the off fore foot the animal will go down on the shoulder of that 
side and will in all probability receive an easy fall. The animal is cast 
as illustrated in Fig. 23 (second position), and secured by taking two or 
more half hitches with the main rope around the uppermost hind pastern. 
This is done by an assistant. The operator stands opposite the assistant 
and behind the animal and is handed the main rope ( W) by the assistant, 
after it has been fixed about the upper hind pastern. The rope is carried 
over the loins and under the colt, thence to the lower hind pastern. Now 
by rolling the colt on his back (Fig. 24, third position) and making down- 
ward pressure on the off hind foot with the left hand, at the same time 



CASTRATION OF THE COLT 35 

drawing the rope tight by an upward pull with the right hand, the hocks 
are flexed and all four feet brought down close to the abdomen. The rope 
is now fixed by two half hitches around the right hind pastern. 

The Miles method affords a light, portable, strong, convenient, safe, 
and in every respect an efficient and satisfactory means of casting and 
securing the colt. The colt is held balanced in the dorsal position by an 
assistant on each side, in which position the field of operation is accessible 
and extremely convenient, and so long as the colt is balanced on his back 
he is absolutely helpless. 

Instruments — (1) Emasculator: same as for the stallion (Figs. 5, 6, 7, 
and 8). (2) Knife: The knife recommended for colt castration is "Far- 
mer" Miles' hooked knife (Fig. 25). 

Many hooked knives of improper design and inferior construction are 
on the market ; on this account it is well for the reader to know the exact 
essentials of a properly designed hooked knife. The main essential is 
that the cutting surface of the blade be at an agle of 45 degrees to the 




Pig 25— "Farmer" Miles' all-metal stiff handle hooked castrating knife. 

handle and that the cutting surface be sharp up to the handle. It is 
necessary that the blade cut, not tear. With a blade thus constructed 
good work can be done. The blades with a decided hook are never satis- 
factory. Such knives drag or tear through the tissues instead of cutting. 
Avoid them. To the beginner a hooked knife is awkward to handle; how- 
ever, after some practice he usually finds it to be an indespensable instru- 
ment. 

Anatomy — Same as for the stallion. (See pages 17-19.) 
Warning— Same as for the stallion. (See pages 25-26.) 
Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands— 
Same as for the stallion. (See page 20.) 

Operative Technic — With the colt cast and tied and balanced on his 
back (dorsal position) by one or more assistants (Fig. 26), the scrotum, 
hands of the operator, etc., disinfected, all is ready for the operation. 
Proceed as follows: With the left hand (9) grasp the sheath (10) 
and with forward and upward traction stretch the scrotum, making it 
taut. With the knife (15) in the right hand (16) begin the left incision 
(11-12) well forward on the scrotum (10) and extending backward 



36 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



three and one-half to four inches. The right incision (13-14) is made 
likewise. These incisions should be parallel to each other, three-fourths 
inch on each side of the raphe or median Tine and parallel to it. 




Fig. 26 — Castrating the colt. 10, Scrotum; 11, beginning of left scrotal in- 
cision; 12, end of left scrotal incision; 13, beginning of right scrotal incision; 
14, end of right scrotal incision; 15, knife. 



The object of drawing the scrotum upward is to form a cavity between 
the skin and subcutaneous connective tissue of the scrotum above and 
the scrotal plexus of the veins below. This cavity or space protects the 
scrotal plexus of the veins from being nicked by the point of the knife 



CASTRATION OF THE COLT 



37 



while the incisions are being made. Release the hold on the sheath an* 
grasp each testicle in turn, and with a nick of the kmfe open the tonic- 
Vaginalis and allow the testicles to ^P* wit h the left 

The next step is to grasp the left testicK U», V- > 




™it is Testicle- 19. spermatic cord; 20, tunica 

hand (17) and draw the testicle npward-at direct right angles to the 

nna -a the same .inn. exerting from one to two pound. raetmn on 

the cord. With the right hand (23) apply the emascn later (22) to the 

cord (19) and force the inatrnment well down against the serotnm (21) 



38 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

in such a manner as to sever the spermatic cord and all of its coverings 
as close to the skin incision as possible. The right testicle is removed in 
like manner and the animal released. By reference to Fig. 16, page 25, 
the reader may observe the exact position of the emasculator on the cord 
and what structures are severed in operating. 

After-Care and Treatment — Same as for the stallion. (See page 22.) 

Prognosis — (See page 23.) 



CHAPTER III. 

CASTRATION OF THE MULE 

Objects and Indications — Since the mule is a hybrid, hence valueless for 
service as a breeding animal, it falls to his lot to undergo the castration 
operation without exception. Unless the mule is castrated before the 
age of two years — it becomes exceedingly disagreeable and troublesome 




Fig. 28 — Castrating the mule. N, Scrotum; O P, scrotal incision; Q, knife; 

S, raphe or median line. 

among other classes of live stock and oftentimes vicious and dangerous 
to the owner. Apparently the only object in castrating the mule is to 
cause its sexual desire to permanently subside to the extent of making 
it a useful farm animal. 
Age — Yearlings, never later unless unavoidable. 



40 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



Season — Preferably spring. 

Preparation — Same as for the stallion. (See page KO 
Restraint — Same as for the colt. (See page 32.) 
Instruments — Same as for the colt. (See page 35.) 
Anatomy — Same as for the stallion. (See page 17.) 
Warning — Same as for the stallion. (See page 20.) 




Fig. 29 — Castrating the mule. U, Testicle; V. spermatic cord; W, 
vaginalis; X, scrotum; Z, emasculator. 



tunica 



Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — Same 
as for stallion. (See pages 20, 21.) 

Operative Technic — The operative technic in mule castration resembles 
in most respects that of colt castration, as outlined on pages 32-38. Tha 
only material difference being the manner in which the coverings of the 
spermatic cord are severed and the extent of their removal. 

With the mule cast, tied and balanced on his back — Dorsal position 
(Fig. 27) — he is ready for operation. The scrotal region and hands of 
the operator are washed with Lysol or liquor Cresolis (U. S. P.), one 



CASTRATION OF THE MULE 



41 



tablespoonful to the quart of water. With the left hand (M) grasp the 
sheath (N) and with forward and upward traction stretch the scrotum 
until it is taut. With a knife (Q) in the right hand (K) make the two 
scrotal incisions (0, P) beginning well forward (0) and extending back- 
ward (P) three to four inches. These incisions should be three-fourths 
inch from and parallel to the raphe or median line (S). Release the hold 
on the sheath and grasp each testicle in turn and with a nick of the 
knife open the tunica vaginalis and allow the testicles to escape. 




Fig. 30 — Proper position of the emasculator. D, and relation of testicle, G, sper- 
matic cord. F, tunica vaginalis, E. and scrotum, A B, in mule castration. 



After the testicles are released from the tunica vaginalis one of them 
is grasped with the left hand (T) (Fig. 29) and drawn upward at right 
angles to the body of the animal by making from one to two pounds 
traction on the cord. With the right hand (Y) apply the emasculator 
(Z) to the cord and force the instrument downward against the scrotum 
(X) in such a manner as to sever the spermatic cord and all of its cover- 
ings as close to the skin incision as possible. See to it that not less than 
one inch of the tunica vaginalis is cut off in order to avoid that all too 
frequent sequel of mule castration, viz.: hydrocele ("water bag" or 
"water seed"), a condition invariably produced by severing the cord 



42 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



below — with the mule in the standing posture — the tunica vaginalis. 
The opposite testicle is removed in like manner and the animal released. 
Figs. 30 and 31 are worthy of careful study by those who contemplate 
castrating mules. They graphically and plainly illustrate all the im- 
portant essentials in handling the emasculator in such a manner as to 
avoid hydrocele formation. 

Prognosis, After-Care and Treatment — Same as for the stallion and colts. 
(See page 23.) 




Fig. 31 — Testicle of mule after removal. A r Tunica vaginalis covering spermatic 
cord; B B, incised portion of tunica vaginalis deflected on cord. It will be ob- 
served that at least one inch of this tunic has been removed. C, Epididymis; 
D, Testes. 



CHAPTER l\. 

COMPLICATIONS ENCOUNTERED IN CASTRATION. 

Inguinal and Scrotal Hernia (Rupture). 

Definition — Inguinal hernia is a condition in which a loop of the 
intestine and sometimes of the mesentery migrates or protrudes through 
the internal abdominal ring into the inguinal canal. (Fig. 82.) 

Scrotal hernia is a condition in which a loop of the intestine and some- 
times of the mesentery migrates or protrudes through the internal abdom- 




Fig. 32 — Inguinal hernia (rupture). A A, Internal abdominal wall; B, internal 
abdominal ring; C, spermatic cord; D D, intestine; E, loop of intestine in the 
inguinal canal; F, spermatic cord in the canal; G, scrotum. 



u 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



inal ring, inguinal canal and the external abdominal ring into the scrotum. 
(Fig. 33.) 

All scrotal hernias were originally inguinal hernias. 

Diagnosis — The presence or absence of hernia is determined by carefully 
feeling the scrotum and closely scrutinizing its size and shape. It is 




-fig. '6'6 — Scrotal hernia (rupture). A, A, Internal abdominal wall; B, internal 
abdominal ring; C. spermatic cord; D D, intestine; E. loop of intestine in the 
scrotum; P, spermatic cord in inguinal canal; G, scrotum; H, testicle. 



oftentimes — in fact usually — impossible to diagnose inguinal hernia except 
on postmortem examination. 

Indications for Operation — The mere fact that the presence of hernia has 
been determined is sufficient indication for operation, unless there be a 
good reason for postponing surgical interference until a later date. In 
all instances the operation necessitates sacrifice of the testicle ; hence the 



COMPLICATIONS IN CASTRATION 



45 



ideal time to operate is at the time of castration. If the surgeon is aware 
of the presence of hernia and is prepared for the operation, the reduction 
of the hernia by surgical interference is comparatively easy. However, 
if the reverse be true — no knowledge of its existence and non-preparedness 
— in the classical vernacular of the barnyard he is up against the real 
thing, a situation most of us have been caught in to our chagrin and 
sorrow. 

So long as hernia does not interfere with the health and usefulness of 
a stallion in service it may not be advisable to operate. 

The ideal age to operate is eight to twelve months. Oftentimes scrotal 




Fig. 34 — Richter's needle-holder. 

hernias in "sucklings" disappear spontaneously before the animal is a 
year old. 

Restraint — The animal should be east and tied, and placed in the dorsal 
position. For colts the ordinary "Farmer" Miles' method of casting 
(Figs. 22, 23 and 24,) is ideal. For older animals more secure restraint 
is necessary, such as is secured with the Knowles Casting Harness, 
described and illustrated on page 51. 

Instruments — (1) Emasculator, Figs. 5, 6, 7 and 8. (2) Miles' hooked 
knife, Fig. 25. (3) Curved probe pointed bistoury. (4) Medium size curved 
needle. (5) Chromicized catgut (fourteen day) largest size. (6) Needle- 
holder (Richter's), Fig. 34. (7) Small trocar and canula. (8) Curved 
scissors (six-inch), Fig. 35. (9) Hemostatic forceps. 

Preparation — Empty the intestinal tra -t by withholding food for 
twenty-four to thirty hours. If constipated, oil in sufficient amount to 
purge several days before operating. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing of Operator's Hands — See 
pages 20, 21. <. 9 

Operative Technic — Cleanse and disinfect the field of operation by 



46 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



washing with Lysol or Cresol Compound (U. S. P.), one tablespoonful to 
each quart of water. With Miles' hooked knife cautiously make an in- 
cision in the scrotum, being careful not to open the tunica vaginalis. The 
scrotal incision should begin well forward and extend backward for five to 
six inches parallel to the median line and one to one and a half inches 
from it. <£> a :\ 

The sac (tunica vaginalis) containing the testicle should then be isolated 
or detached by blunt dissection and tearing up the inguinal canal to within 
about two inches of the internal abdominal ring. 

Before proceeding further all blood-vessels of sufficient size should be 
ligated. The sac (tunica vaginalis) should then be opened and the testicle 
taken hold of and held with one hand while the loop of intestine (J) is 
gradually replaced through the internal inguinal ring (P) (See Fig. 36) 
into the abdominal cavitv. The testicle itself is now removed with the 




Fig. 35 — Curved scissors (6-inch). 



emasculator in the usual way. The stump of the spermatic cord (K) is 
placed within the abdominal cavity and the tunica vaginalis (L) ligated 
with chromicized catgut (fourteen-day) largest size (M) as close to the 
internal abdominal ring as possible. The loose portion of the tunica 
vaginalis is then removed by severing below the ligature. Sometimes it 
becomes necessary to enlarge the internal abdominal ring before the hernia 
can be reduced. This can be done readily with a probe pointed bistoury 
passed up the inguinal canal. If a loop of bowel happens to be distended 
by gas it should be punctured with a small trocar and canula. 

The scrotum may be packed with sterile gauze if considered advisable. 
However, scrotum packing is not usually necessary. 

After-Care and' Treatment — Same as for the stallion. (See page 22.) 

CASTRATION OF THE CRYPTORCHID (RIDGLING) 

Definition — A cryptorchid is an animal in which the testicles have failed 



COMPLICATIONS IN CASTRATION 



47 



to descend into the scrotum. When both testicles are retained in the 
abdominal cavity the animal is usually spoken of as a "double cryp- 
torchid." 

A monorchid is an animal which has only one testicle. Animals in 
which only one testicle has failed to descend into the scrotum are frequently 
spoken of as monorchids. However true monorchids (Except as a result of 
the removal of one testicle) are rare. 

Classification — Since the degree of descent of the testicle varies in 




Fig. 36 — Diagrammatic sketch of operation for inguinal and scrotal hernia (rup- 
ture). I, Internal abdominal wall; J, loop of intestine replaced in the abdominal 
cavity; K, stump of spermatic cord from which the testicle has been removed; 
L, tunica vaginalis in close proximity to the internal abdominal ring; M, ligature; 
N, inguinal canal; P, internal abdominal ring. 



different animals it becomes necessary to classify ridglings into at least 
three groups or classes. They were formerly classified by "Farmer" 
Miles as : <§, '■ 

No. 1. Testicles not in the scrotum but in the inguinal canal. Such 
testicles can be felt on deep pressure. ("Low flanker.") 

No. 2. Testicles high up in the inguinal canal — too high to be felt even 
upon deep pressure. ("High flanker.") 

No. 3. Testicles inside the abdominal cavitj^. 



48 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

No. 4. Testicles inside the abdominal cavity with part of the spermatic 
cord and sometimes the epididymis protruded through the internal 
abdominal ring into the inguinal canal. 

No. 5 Pathological (diseased) testicles. 

While the above classification by Miles is not what may be termed 
anatomically and surgically scientific, it was nevertheless valuable in 
arriving at the exact status of a ridgling case. While acknowledging the 
value of the work done by my first teacher — "Farmer" Miles — and the 
usefulness of his classification of ridgling horses into Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, 
nevertheless such classification was crude, and in this day of progress 
and development would not pass muster from a scientific viewpoint. The 
anatomical classification possesses many advantages and will be adhered 
to in handling the subject. 

Miles' No. 1 cannot properly be classed as a cryptorchid in any respect. 

(a) Suprascrotal ridgling is a condition in which the testicle with the 
spermatic cord is in the inguinal canal, but too high to be felt even on 
deep pressure. ("High flanker.") This is the class oftenest encountered 
in young animals and corresponds with Miles' No. 2. The testicle is 
usually firm and fairly well developed and always enclosed in the tunica 
vaginalis. 

(b) Intra-abdominal ridgling is a condition in which the testicles are 
located inside the abdominal cavity. This is a genuine cryptorchid in fact 
as well as in name. In such cases the testicles are usually soft and flabby 
and not of the characteristic shape met with in stallions. This variety 
corresponds to Miles' No. 3. 

(c) Intro-inguinal ridgling is a condition in which the testes is inside 
the abdominal cavity with a portion of the spermatic cord and sometimes 
the epididymis high up in the inguinal canal. (Fig. 50). This corresponds 
with Miles' No. 4. Such cases are usually very confusing to the operator; 
especially if the operator be a novice. 

(d) Anomalous ridgling is a condition wherein abnormally developed or 
diseased testicles are encountered, viz. : hypertrophy, cysts — including der- 
moid and dentigerons — solid fleshy tumors (sarocele), atrophy and adhe- 
sions of the testicle to the parietal peritoneum, etc. Some of the above 
enumerated anomalies and curiosities encountered in cyptorchid castra- 
tion complicate the operative technic and have a tendency to cause the 
operator no little anxiety, annoyance and oftentimes embarrassment. If 
further information is desired on cases of this character the author takes 
pleasure in referring the reader to Frederick Hobday, F. II. C. V. S., Lon- 
don, England, as being the world's best authority. 

Objects and Indications — All ridglings should be castrated for the 



COMPLICATIONS IN CASTRATION -± ( J 

principal reason that they are sterile as breeding animals and a public 
and private nuisance among other classes of live stock. Some of them 
become vicious, in which event they are dangerous both to the owner and 
to other animals. The fact that the testicle is inside the abdominal cavity, 
is small, undeveloped and sterile, does not reduce the sexual desire of its 
possessor in the least. On the other hand, it appears at times that the 
sexual desire is abnormal. A horse with an undescended testicle is as 
undesirable as a mare affected with nymphomania. They are useless as 
service or breeding animals. There is no reason why they should not be 
castrated and every reason why they should be. 

Diagnosis — If possible, secure an accurate history of the subject, as this 
is a necessary adjunct to operating satisfactorily and successfully. Ascer- 
tain the following : 

1. If any previous unsuccessful attempt has been made to operate. 

2. If either testicle has been successfully removed. If so, on which 
side was it located and how long since removal? 

The information obtained is not always trustworthy, so the operator 
is not justified in proceeding with the operation until as an additional pre- 
caution he has personally examined the animal carefully. 

1. Search the scrotum carefully for the cicatrix (scar) of any former 
attempted operation. If the operation was performed by either the 
ecraseur or emasculator — some time previously — no distinct scar may be 
present. 

2. Examine the inguinal canal for the stump of the cord. If the 
previous operation was performed at an early age the stump of the cord 
may be atrophied to such an extent that its presence in the canal cannot 
be determined. 

If after questioning the owner or attendant and examining the patient 
you are still in doubt as to which testicle is undescended, the proper 
method of procedure would be to invade the left, as four-fifths of all 
undescended testicles are on the left side. If you should make a mistake 
and invade the wrong side, proceed at once to turn the patient over and 
operate on the other side. The diagnostic value of rectal exploration at 
any time is doubtful. Such examination immediately before operating is 
bad practice and not justified. 

Age — Ordinarily the question of age is not one left to the choice of the 
operator. He is forced to take them at any age he finds them. It is not 
well to operate upon a ridgling until he is at least two years old. The 
ideal age is three years, as at that age the animal is larger and better 
developed, which, of course, means that there is much more room in the 
inguinal canal and groin in which to work. Besides, at three years old 
the abdominal wall is thicker and stronger and there is less liability of 



50 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



rupturing- the internal and external oblique abdominal muscles with the 
hand. Ridglings at any age above three years are acceptable for operation. 

Season — Preferably spring and early fall. 

Preparation — The main object to be attained in preparing the patient 
is to have an unirritated and empty alimentary (intestinal) tract at the 
time of the operation. This is usually accomplished by withholding food 
for thirty hours before castration. No purgative should be allowed 
as an empty bowel irritated by purgative medication is a predisposing 
cause of dangerous sequelae such as colic, peritonitis, volvulus, etc. An 




Fig. 37 — Knowles' casting harness applied. 



empty alimentary tract is desirable on account of affording less intra- 
abdominal pressure and lessening the possibility of bowel protrusion 
through the inguinal canal. 

Restraint — There are many kinds and styles of restraint harness and 
ropes with which a ridgling horse may be satisfactorily cast and tied. 
The main point to be constantly borne in mind is that first of all the 
restraint must be safe and secure. The animal must be tied in such a 
manner that the latitude for movement is minimized as much as possible. 
The position must also be considered. One of the simplest and most satis- 
factory casting harness for the castration of ridglings is that of Knowles. 
The Knowles harness has been used for several years by the author with 
satisfactory results. 



COMPLICATIONS IN CASTRATION 



51 



The casting and securing harness illustrated in Fig. 37 was designed 
by W. F. Knowles. It is made in both large and small sizes. The large 
size fits horses weighing 900 pounds or more, and the small size fits those 
of from 400 to 900 pounds. 

This apparatus is light, compact, and convenient to carry. When 
properly used it affords ample restraint for all ordinary purposes. It 
consists of a flat webbing collar, two main ropes and two hobbles. The 
collar (B) is in two sections; each section is connected on each side of 
the horse by heavy double rings, one of which is of special design to afford 
easy passage of the two main ropes (D, G). The ropes (D, G) are each 
five-eighths inch in diameter and thirty feet long. One end is securely 
fastened into the inner ring of the webbing breast collar. Around each 




Fig. 38 — Animal cast and secured with Knowles' harness. 



pastern (E, H) is placed a webbing hobble. In each end of this webbing 
hobble is fixed a specially constructed metal, rounded "D" through which 
the ropes pass. 

To apply this harness the breast collar is placed over the head and 
adjusted to the shoulders. One section fits over the withers and the 
other section is dropped down below the point of the shoulders (K). The 
free end of the ropes (D, G) pass downward to and through each "D" of 
the webbing hobble, then upward to and through "D" of the breast 
collar. If it is desired to cast the horse on the off side, the off fore foot 
must be raised and secured by some form of knee strap. The free end 
of the main rope on the near side should be carried backward over the 
back and held by two assistants. The free end of the main rope (I) on 



52 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

the off side should be carried forward, well in front of the animal, and 
held by two assistants. To east the animal, traction is made on each rope, 
and at the same time the animal is forced backward a step by the assistant 
in charge of the head. The head is pulled to the right and the animal is 
cast on the near side. 

In order to securely tie the animal after he is cast (Fig. 38) the main 
ropes (N, N) are fastened around the pasterns by two half hitches, and 
are then passed behind the hocks (P, P) in a figure-8 fashion a couple of 
times, after which they are secured about the pasterns (O, 0) by half 
hitches. The opposite side is secured likewise after the animal is turned 
over. See to it that the hocks are completely flexed and that the feet are 




Fig. 39— Miles' ridgling spreaders. 



not extended too far forward. After the hind legs are secured apply a 
knee strap (M) to the off fore leg. The Miles spreaders (Fig. 39) are then 
applied, after which the animal is secured for operation. The author's 
ideal, casting harness illustrated on page 218, has been found to be entirely 
satisfactory for restraining ridgling horses for operation. With| thiri 
harness the animal is cast and tied by the same methods as those described 
as being used with the Knowles harness. 

While I do not dispute the possibility of castrating a ridgling horse on 
the operating table, nevertheless its practicability is seriously doubted. 

Position— lateral recumbent position with the side of the undescended 
testicle uppermost. Hocks completely flexed. Hind feet not too far for- 
ward and the thigh completely abducted. 



COMPLICATIONS IN CASTRATION 53 

Instruments and Equipment — (1) Miles' all-metal hooked castrating 
knife (Fig. 25). (2) Peritoneum perforater (Fig. 40). 

The peritoneum perforator here referred to is a piece of nickel-plated 
steel wire sixteen inches long, with a handle on one end and a right angle 
hook on the other. This hook is one inch in length and its perforating 




Fig. 40 — Peritoneum perforator. 

surface is slightly dulled. The function of this instrument — as its name 
indicates — is to make the opening through the thin abdominal wall. 

(3) Ecraseur. The most satisfactory ecraseur yet offered to the veterin- 
ary profession in this country is shown in Fig. 41. This instrument is 
strong, well constructed and its design ideal. The advantages of this 
instrument over others consist of an arrangement by which, with the 
thumb and finger of one hand (the other hand left free), the ecraseur 
can be held, and the slack of the chain taken up at once without drawing 
out the screw or lengthening the instrument. 

The thumb-piece, on the end of which the female thread is cut, works 
automatically, engaging the screw at all times until released by the 




Fig. 41 — Dunn's ecraseur. 

pressure of the thumb; this insures perfect safety, as the chain cannot slip 
due to imperfect or careless adjustment, which often occurs with other 
ecraseurs. It is also easy to clean and sterilize, as it can be taken apart 
without the aid of a screwdriver in a few seconds' time, by a half turn 
of the collar near the handle. It is made with or without the improved 
head. The one with the improved head is much to be preferred. 

(4) Surgeon's needle threaded for suturing the scrotum after packing. 

(5) Sterile gauze to use in packing the scrotum. 



54 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



(6) Van Horn's or Abbott's Surgical Jelly for lubricating the parts. 

(7) Antiseptic solution in plentiful amount. As a precaution against 
some untoward accident or emergency it is well to fortify yourself by 
having in reserve the following: (1) Vulsellum forceps (Fig. 55); (2) 
hemostatic forceps; (3) extra ecraseur; (4) needles containing ligatures 
and sutures; (5) trocar and canula (ordinary horse size). 

Anatomy — Same as for stallion castration. (See page 17.) 




Fig. 42 — Making the scrotal incision. T, Miles' hooked knife; U, scrotal 
incision; V, point of sheath. 



Warning — Before beginning to operate, diagnose the case if possible. 
Examine the inguinal and scrotal regions for hernia (rupture), abnormali- 
ties in development, diseases of the scrotum, etc. Look out for constitu- 
tional diseases which would have a tendency to endanger the life of the 
animal or interfere with convalescence. These diseases are strangles, 
influenza, pneumonia, pleurisy, bronchitis, catarrhal fever, purpura 
hemorrhagica, etc. 

Don't thrust your whole hand through the abdominal wall, your index 
and second finger will do enough damage to the wall and besides these are 
ample inside the abdomen. 




PLATE I 



Copyright 1920 
American Veterinary Pub. Co. 



Cross Section of the Pelvic and Extreme Posterior Portion of the Peritoneal Cavity 
of a Cryptorchid Horse. Structures Shown have been Embalmed in Situ. 

1 Testicle. 2. Tail of epididymis. 3. Fat tissue at posterior end of testicle. 4. Gubernaeulum 
testis. 5. Mesorchium, 6. Urinary bladder. 7. Rectum. S. Small colon. 9. Mesorectum. 10. 
Vaginal ring. 11. Plica ductus deferens. 12. Plica ductus vasculosa. 13. Internal spermatic 
artery and vein. 14. Aorta. 15. Vena cava. 




PLATE II 



Copyright 192 
American Veterinary Pub. Cc. 



Front-side View of the Pelvic and Extreme Posterior Portion of the Peritoneal 
Cavity of a Cryptorchid Horse. Structures Shown have been Embalmed in Situ. 

1. Testicle. 2. Tail of epididymis (body and head not in view). 3. Fat tissue at posterior end 
of testicle. 4. Gubernaculum testis. 5. Mesorchium. 6. Smlall colon. 7. Mesorectum. 8. Site of 
dorsal part of inguinal canal with peritoneum and subperitoneal basin. 9. Inguinal (Poupart's) 
ligament. 10. Internal oblique muscle. 11. Small, undeveloped externa] cremaster muscle. 12. 
Internal spermatic artery and vein. 13. Aorta. II. Vena cava. 



COMPLICATIONS IN CASTRATION 



55 



Don't explore the whole abdominal cavity in an effort to locate the 
testicle. You wouldn't recognize it if you found it. Better feel for the 
spermatic cord — something yon can recognize if you feel it — which is 
within two inches of the abdominal incision, provided you puncture the 
abdominal wall at the right place. Let the testicle take care of itself until 
later. 

Take your time and do the operation well at all hazards. 

Be careful in easting and tying, and above all else don't get excited. 
Remember that it is not you, or even your horse, that is being operated 




Fig. 43 — Scrotal incisions. 



upon. If you should happen to make a failure, remember that you are 
not the only one to whom such a misfortune has befallen. 

Sterilization of Instruments — Same as for castration of the stallion. 
(See pages 20, 21.) 

Cleansing and Disinfecting the Field of Operation — Of all the opera- 
tions in the domain of veterinary surgery where cleanliness stands out 
prominently as being pre-eminently important it is in ridgling castration. 
With tincture of green soap, warm water and a scrub brush thoroughly 
scrub the inguinal and scrotal regions, also the inner aspect of the thighs. 
After washing, sponge the parts with absolute alcohol. Then paint the 



o6 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



scrotum with tincture of iodin and allow it time to dry before making the 
incisions. 

Operative Technic for Castrating the Intro-Abdominal Ridgling 

(Miles' Xo. 3). 

(a) Scrota 1 Incision — With a rubber glove on the left hand (R) and 
Miles' hooked castrating knife (T) in the right hand (S), the point of the 
sheath (V) is grasped with the left (R) and traction made upward and 
forward. (Fig. 42.) Beginning well forward on the scrotum the knife 
is drawn backward, making an incision (U) through the skin, sub- 
cutaneous connective tissue and dartos only. This incision (U) should be 
five inches long, parallel to and one inch to the side of the raphe or 
median line. (Figs. 42 and 43.) When the incision or incisions are 




Fig. 44 — Position of the fingers in opening and entering the inguinal canal. 



completed remove the rubber glove from the previously washed left hand 
and, if necessary, rewash both hands before proceeding further. 

(b) Opening and Entering the Inguinal Canal — With the four fingers 
of each hand, placed back to back, separate, by tearing, the tissues down 
to the external abdominal ring, which is the entrance to the inguinal 
canal. The next step is to lubricate with Surgical Jelly the scrotal 
wound and the operating hand. Then proceed, by fixing the fingers in the 
shape of a cone (Fig. 44) and using a limited amount of force, open and 
enter the inguinal canal until the internal abdominal ring is reached. 
Remember the direction of the canal is upward and backward. The in- 
ternal ring is the landmark for the site of entering the abdominal cavity. 
You may expect to find the ring at a distance of six to ten inches above 
the scrotal incision, depending, of course, on the size of the animal. 

(c) Entering Abdominal Cavity from Inguinal Canal — With the 



COMPLICATIONS IN CASTRATION 



bi 



internal abdominal ring as a guide, select a site one inch above and one 
inch in front of it, and proceed with a peritoneum perforator to rupture 
the thin abdominal wall, which at this point consists only of the trans- 
versalis fascia and peritoneum, as you are now above the upper border of 
the internal oblique muscle. This affords access to the abdominal cavity. 
The perforation should not exceed one inch in length. 

(d) Locating the Spermatic Cord — With the index and second finger 




Fig. 45 — Entering the abdominal cavity by perforating the thin abdominal wall. 
A, Right hand in the inguinal canal; B, peritoneum perforator in action; C, 
incision; D, left hand manipulating perforator. 



enlarge, by stretching, the abdominal perforation sufficiently to admit 
both fingers (Fig. 46). The cord (C) is almost invariably located within 
two inches of the abdominal perforation (F). To find the cord, pass the 
second finger downward against the internal abdominal wall (G) and the 
index finger directly forward, slightly upward toward the center of the 
abdominal cavity. By bringing these two fingers together (Fig. 47) the 



58 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 




c JtXui ^rzT^^iz^^rizT^ facts reiative to *««■« 

some of the covered steps o t he operattn ^"^^an words could describe 
scended testicle; C, cord of left undesopn^t f' Rec ^ m > B - ^d of right de- 
ring; E, left internal abdon inll ng "f Lfsion tl ' 'JX intenial Nominal 
inch above and 1 inch in front in ' . incislon through the abdominal wall 1 

index and the second finger p^otru^ thro^- abdomhlal **■ Observe the 
matic cord. G, G. internal abdn^nll n § * ncisi0n searching for the sper- 
loose in aMominalca^ltatrrend^ »«5n. 



COMPLICATIONS IN CASTRATION 



59 



cord (C) is caught between them. To distinguish the cord from the 
other abdominal viscera it is rubbed between the fingers and the vas def- 
erens— a hard, wire-like cord— is plainly felt. No other vessel in the 




Fig 47— A Rectum; B. cord of right descended testicle; C. cord of left un- 
descended testicle; D. right internal abdominal ring; E. left internal abdominal 
ring- F abdominal perforation through which is protruded the index and the 
second linger of the operating hand grasping the cord (C) of the undescended 
testicle; G, G, internal abdominal wall; H. undescended (left) testicle. 

abdominal cavity has this wire-cord-like feel, hence felt between the 
fingers it is positively identified. 

(e) Removing Testicle From the Abdominal Cavity— With the cord 



60 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



(C) between the two fingers, moderate traction is made and the unattached 
end of the cord containing' the testicle will follow through the abdominal 
perforation (F) into the inguinal canal and out through the scrotal 
incision. 

Removing Testicle From Corel — Grasp the testicle with the left hand, 
and with the right hand apply the chain of the ecraseur to the cord. With 




Fig. 48 — Removing the testicle from cord. E, Testicle; F, ecraseur. 



two pounds of traction on the cord force the ecraseur chain well up in the 
scrotum, at right angles to the cord; take up the slack of the chain and 
proceed to sever the cord. 

(f) Final Step — Wash the scrotum and surrounding parts with anti- 
septic solution, being careful to remove all blood clots, etc., after which 
pack the scrotum only, using one yard of sterile gauze, and suture the 



COM PLICATIONS IN CASTRATION 61 

skin incision securely with strong uninterrupted sutures. Packing the 
scrotum can do no harm, and there is a possibility, in fact a probability, 
of its saving the life of a patient. Especially is this true should colicky 
pains ensue within twelve hours after operating, in which event the rolling 
and tumbling of the animal would have a tendency to cause bow T el pro- 
trusion. As a precautionary measure I cannot too strongly recommend 
packing the scrotum before the animal is allowed to rise to his feet. 
If only one testicle is undescended remove the other as in ordinary 
castration and the operation is complete. If the animal is a double cryp- 
torchid, turn it on the other side and repeat the operation on the other 
side without delay. Never attempt to remove both testicles from the one 
abdominal opening, as in order to do so it is necessary to eidarge the 




Fig. 49 — Testicle of a "ridgling" horse. 

opening sufficiently to admit the whole hand ; such a large perforation in 
the abdominal wall is dangerous and such a procedure bad practice. 

Intra-1 n<j u inal Ridgling 

This is the variety in which the testicle (testes) is inside the abdominal 
cavity, while a portion of the spermatic cord and sometimes the epididymis 
is in the upper part of the inguinal canal, of course surrounded by the 
tunica vaginalis. (Fig. 50.) This corresponds to Miles' No. 4. 

This is the class which is liable to confuse the inexperienced operator. 

Objects and indications, age, season, preparation, restraint, position, 
instruments, anatomy, washing, sterilization of instruments, cleansing the 
operator's hands and disinfection of the operative field are the sa:ne as 
those employed in castrating the intra-abdominal ridgling. 

Operative Teehnie — The incisions are made and the scrotum and 
inguinal canal invaded in the same manner as that employed in the 
intra-abdominal variety. 

Location of the Testicle — The testicle is located by proceeding carefully 



62 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



up the inguinal canal, at the same time making a thorough search for the 
tunica vaginalis containing the spermatic cord and sometimes the 
epididymis. As soon as the tunic is encountered, examine it carefully in 
order that no mistake in diagnosis be made. When satisfied that you are 
in possession of the tunica vaginalis, pass the hooked knife up the canal 
sufficiently high to nick the tunic and allow its contents — be what they 
may — to escape into the inguinal canal. You are now in possession of the 




Fig. 50 — Intra-inguinal cryptorchid (Bayer). A, Testes inside the abdominal 
cavity; B, B. internal abdominal wall; C. spermatic cord inside the inguinal canal; 
D, tunica vaginalis; EE, dotted lines indicate outlines of spermatic cord; F, in- 
ternal abdominal ring; G, inguinal canal. 



spermatic cord and are justified in applying a limited amount of traction 
in an effort to bring the testicle from the abdominal cavity through the 
internal abdominal ring into the inguinal canal. If successful, all that 
remains to be done is to sever the spermatic cord with the ecraseur and 
allow the animal to rise to his feet. Oftentimes the amount of traction 
which can safely be applied to the cord will not suffice to bring the testicle 



COMPLICATIONS IN CASTRATION 63 

out of the abdominal cavity. The proper method of procedure in such a 
case is to perforate the abdominal wall with the peritoneum perforator 
(Fig. 40) one inch above and one inch forward of the internal abdominal 
ring. With the index and second finger in the abdominal cavity return 
the cord, and such other parts of it or the testicle as are in the inguinal 
canal, to the abdominal cavity, after which the cord can easily be brought 
through the abdominal perforation into the inguinal canal and the testicle 
is sure to follow. In other words, we make an intra-abdominal ridgling 
out of the intra-inguinal ridgling and castrate him as described in detail 
on pages 56-61. 

Supra-Scrotal Ridgling — This is the variety in which the testicle and 
spermatic cord are in the inguinal canal, however, too high up to be felt 
even on deep pressure ("High flanker"). This class is the one usually 
encountered in young animals, and corresponds to Miles' No. 2. 

Not being in possession of knowledge which would indicate to us in 
advance that the testicle is not actually in the abdominal cavity, we are 
forced to proceed accordingly and prepare the patient, sterilize the instru- 
ments, cast and tie, disinfect the field of operation, make the scrotal 
incisions, invade the scrotum and inguinal canal, the same as we would 
for a ridgling of the intra-abdominal variety. However, encountering the 
tunica vaginalis containing the testicle high up in the inguinal canal — 
outside of the abdominal cavity — we are spared the effort, and the animal 
the danger of perforating the abdominal wall. All that is necessary to 
be done is to pass the hooked knife up the canal, nick the tunica vaginalis, 
allow the testicle to escape, sever the cord with the emasculator, and 
allow the animal to rise to his feet. 

Secondary Operation — Oftentimes a previous attempt has been made 
by an incompetent operator, to remove an undescended testicle. In such 
cases the scrotum and groin are filled with scar tissue, complicating the 
entrance to the inguinal canal and the abdominal cavity and otherwise 
making the operation difficult, unpleasant and unsatisfactory. In such 
cases the convalescence is prolonged and the mortality greater than if 
the unsuccessful attempt had not been made. In operating upon this class 
of cases the scrotum is entered in the usual way, after which the scar 
tissue in the canal is cut through and broken down until the internal 
abdominal ring is reached. In doing this it often becomes necessary to 
control profuse hemorrhage by ligation. When the internal abdominal 
ring is reached, use it as a landmark and proceed to finish the operation 
in the usual manner. Such cases are referred to as "repeats." 

(d) Anomalous Ridgling — This is the variety in which pathological 
testicles are encountered, and it corresponds to Miles' No. 5. The diseased 
conditions most often observed are : hypertrophy, cysts —including der- 



64 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

moid, simple serous, and dentigerous varieties — solid tumors (sarcocele), 
etc. Iu operating upon ridglings belonging to this class the same general 
principles are employed as apply in castrating intra abdominal ridglings> 
with the exception of the size of the perforation through the abdominal 
wall and the methods of removing the testicle therefrom. Instead of making 
a perforation sufficiently large to admit two fingers, it is usually necessary 
to make one that will admit the whole hand. AVhen cystic testicles are 
encountered it oftentimes becomes necessary to free them of their fluid 
contents by the use of the trocar and canula before they can be withdrawn 
through the abdominal incision. In removing large, solid tumors which 
are too voluminous to be brought down the inguinal canal, the flank 
method of operating must be resorted to. The operative technic must be 
modified step by step as the circumstances and condition met require. 
The operator must solve the problems' as they arise. No fixed modus 
operandi applicable to such pathological conditions can be outlined. It 
is up to the individual operator, and my advice is to "go to it" and do your 
best. 

After-Care and Treatment — Place the animal in a sanitary, well-bedded 
box stall immediately after the operation is completed. Halter the head 
up in such a manner as to prevent him from lying down for twenty-four 
hours. If severe pain (colicky) ensues one ounce fluid extract Cannabis 
Indica may be given in a capsule at two-hour intervals. Allow plenty of 
water, but no feed during the first twelve hours. At the expiration of twen- 
ty-four hours remove the packing from the scrotum, untie the animal, and 
if possible turn him out to pasture. Turning out to pasture is advocated foi 
two reasons, viz. : first, for exercise, which is a very essential part of the 
after-treatment ; second, to get the patient away from the dirt and manure 
around the barnyard and stable, thus avoiding the greatest source of 
wound contamination. 

Moderate daily exercise is essential even if it is necessary to force the 
patient to take it. Violent exercise is harmful, and is not called for at any 
stage of the procedure. Usually as soon as the sweFing appears and the 
soreness develops — the very time they need exercise most — there is a 
tendency on the part of the patient to stand still in one place for hours 
without moving. In this event, the animal must be led in a walk about a 
mile morning and night until after the eighth or ninth day. If the lips 
of the skin wound adhere in such a manner as to interfere with free 
inguinal and scrotal drainage, the parts and the operator's fingers should 
be thoroughly washed and the scrotum opened, after which the wound 
should be irrigated with a dependable antiseptic solution. 

Keep the bowels lax by bran mashes and green food. 

Sequelae — Septic infection (see page 68). Tetanus (see page 68). Abscess 



COMPLICATIONS IN CASTRATION 



65 



of scrotum and inguinal canal (see page 68). Colic (see page 70). Prolapse 
of the intestine (see page 70). Injuries from casting (see page 70). Peri- 
tonitis (see page 70). Primary and secondary hemorrhage, (see page 72). 
Edema of the sheath and ventral surface of the abdomen (see page 73). 




Fig. 51 — Hermaphrodite horse. 

Paraphimosis (see page 75). Azoturia (see page 71). Schirrous cord (see 
page 77). 

Remarks— U the foregoing illustrations and description of the ridgling 
operations are not plain, then the author must confess that he is incapable 
of imparting knowledge or information of this character. An extra effort 
was purposely and honestly made to dispense with much superfluous 
"stuff," often termed "information," widely used by some in describing 



66 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

the modus operandi of ridgling castration. The reader is here assured that 
the authors' only object was to level the technic to a plain, solid, practical 
basis in order that this most necessary economic operation could be learned 
and more generally practiced for the benefit of mankind in general and 
the horse-raising industry in particular. 

Orchitis 

Orchitis — Both acute and chronic orchitis are not infrequently 
encountered in the castration operation. 

Definition — Inflammation of the testicle. 

Symptoms — (a) Acute Orchitis — Swelling of the testicle accompanied 
by heat and pain on pressure. Arching the loins, stiffness and straddling 
gait are usually observed. 

(b) Chronic Orchitis — Enlargement and hardening of the testicle ac- 
companied by adhesion of that organ to the tunica vaginalis. 

Advisability of Castration — (a) Acute Orchitis — When an acute case cf 
orchitis is encountered and its presence recognized before the scrotum is 
opened, it is always advisable to postpone operation until a later date in 
order to give the inflammation time to subside. 

(b) Chronic Orchitis — There is no special reason why an animal cannot 
be safely castrated while affected with chronic orchitis, even though the 
case be an aggravated one. In such event the testicle itself would be quite 
voluminous in size and completely surrounded by adhesions firmly con- 
necting it to the tunica vaginalis. The method of procedure when such 
a complication as this is encountered is to proceed as in castrating a 
stallion in normal condition, with the exception that it will be found 
necessary to detach the testicle from the tunica vaginalis by tearing and 
blunt and sharp dissection of the adhesions. Sometimes the hemorrhage 
from blood-vessels in the tunic is quite profuse and must be controlled by 
hemostatic forceps and ligatures. 

When the adhesions are so strong and dense as to prevent tearing and 
breaking them down, it becomes necessary to operate by what is known 
as the "covered method," viz.: Allow the testicle to remain in the tunica 
vaginalis and sever with emasculator the tunica and cord well above the 
testicle. 

Adhesions — See chronic orchitis above. 

HERMAPHRODITE 

Definition — Hermaphrodism is a condition in which both sexes are mani- 
fested. 

Objects and Indications — In those cases of hermaphrodism in which the 
male genitals are most developed, the animal will have the same habits 



COMPLICATIONS IN CASTRATION G7 

and exhibit most of the objeetionable qualities observed in the ridgling. 
In such cases it is oftentimes advisable to undertake the removal of the 
testicles. In fact, the veterinarian is called upon to perform this opera - 
tion much oftener than is usually imagined. 

Preparation — Same as for castration of the stallion. (See page 13). 

Season — Spring and fall. 

Age — Same as for castration of the stallion. (See page 13.) 

Restraint — Same as for castration of the ridgling. 

Anatomy — The general anatomy of the parts is, of course, the same as 
that of the stallion. (See pages 17.) However the testicles in this class 
of animals are indefinitely located. There is no hard and fast rule with 
reference to their location which would be a definite guide in finding 
them. They are usually outside the abdominal cavity, most frequently in 
the inguinal canal, but in some instances they are found in the posterior 
part of the scrotum. Figure 51 illustrates one of the author's cases in 
which one testicle was high up in the inguinal canal and the other in the 
scrotum. 

Instruments — Same as for castration of the ridgling. 

Position — Dorsal. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — Same as 
for castration of the stallion. (See pages 20, 21.) 

Operative Technic — With the animal cast and tied, a careful search 
for the testicles should be made in every conceivable direction and in every 
logical location. If they can be felt, the operation is greatly simplified. 
If they are concealed, the proper course to pursue is to open the scrotum 
and proceed up the inguinal canal as in castrating a ridgling. When 
found, the testicles should be brought out of the scrotal incision, provided 
the spermatic cords are not too short to prevent it. If the cords are 
short, pass the ecraseur up the canals and sever them. 

After-Care and Treatment — Same as for the ridgling. (See page 64.) 



v 



CHAPTER V. 



SEQUELAE OF CASTRATION 



Septic Infection 

Contamination of the wound either during operation or afterward may 
result in septicemia, pyemia, peritonitis, tetanus, abscess, etc. 

Abscess of Scrotum and Inguinal Canal — This condition arises as a con- 
sequence of septic infection associated with the lips of the skin incision 
adhering too early after the operation. 




Pig. 52 — A colt with tetanus 18 days after castration. 

Treatment — Evacuation by lancing in such a site and manner as to 
afford free drainage, followed by daily irrigation with any reliable anti- 
septic solution is the extent of the treatment. 

TETANUS 

(Lock jaw) is the most frequent sequel of castration in the southern 



SEQUELAE OF CASTRATION 69 

states, and from information at hand I am inclined to believe that this 
sequela is not rare in other sections of the United States. 

Cause — We know that tetanus is caused by the tetanus bacillus gaining 
access to the wound. This may take place either at the time of operation 
or later. Whenever a case of tetanus develops after castration the owner 
invariably censures the operator. However, experience has led me to 
conclude that the operator is blameless in the great majority of instances. 
At least ninety per cent of animals that develop tetanus after castration, 
acquire the infection from lying down in manure and dirt, thus contami- 
nating the wound. In every castration operation there is a possibility of 
post-operative infection. 

Period of Incubation — The period of incubation varies from eight to 
thirty days. 

Symptoms — Stiffness and contraction of all the voluntary muscles, more 
especially those of the tail and jaws. As a result of this muscular stiffness 
the tail and head are protruded, the jaws stiff — partial or complete — 
straddling and awkward gait. When the head is raised the nictitating 
membrane (haw) protrudes over the eyeball. (Fig. 52.) 

Treatment — Is both prophylactic and curative. Prophylactic treatment 
consists in the administration of 500 to 750 units of tetanus antitoxin im- 
Viediately after each castration operation. 

Curative treatment consists in casting the animal, opening up the scrotal 
wound and swabbing it out thoroughly with tincture of iodin, after which 
place him in a quiet box stall away from other live stock and noise and ad- 
minister one-twentieth to one-tenth grain of lobelin sulphate once daily or 
often enough to quiet the animal and control the spasms, or one may give 
thirty grains powdered extract Cannabis Indica three times a day. If 
treatment with tetanus antitoxin is undertaken, 5,000 to 10,000 units intra- 
venously every two days is indicated. The diet should consist of sloppy 
foods. 

Mortality — The mortality varies from thirty to seventy-five per cent. 

PROLAPSE OF THE OMENTUM 

While prolapse of the omentum is a rare sequela of castration, neverthe- 
less, it does sometimes occur, and when it does, prompt and heroic measures 
are imperative if the life of the animal is to be saved. Usually when the 
omentum protrudes from the scrotal incision it is simply a forerunner of 
what is to happen later, viz : protrusion of the intestine and death of the 
animal unless intelligently directed relief measures are promptly insti- 
tuted. 

Operative Technic — Cast and secure the patient in the dorsal position, 
after which cleanse the parts and the hands of the operator by careful and 
thorough washing with antiseptic solution. Sever the protruding portion of 



70 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

the omentum with the emasculator, after which return that portion which 
remains in the inguinal canal back through the internal abdominal ring into 
the abdominal cavity. If there is evidence of the internal abdominal ring- 
being abnormally enlarged it is safest, in fact advisable, to gather up the 
tunica vaginalis and ligate it as near the internal abdominal ring as possible 
with chromicized catgut (14 day) large size. Proceed the same as for in- 
guinal and scrotal hernia, page 46. If thought advisable there is no 
special objection to packing the scrotum with sterile gauze and suturing. 
Remove the sutures and packing in twenty-four to thirty hours and irrigate 
the canal and scrotum once daily for eight days with Lysol or cresol com- 
pound (U. S. P.), one tablespoonful to each quart of water. Daily exer- 
cise at pasture or walking exercise is advisable. 

PROLAPSE OP INTESTINE 

This is another rare though dangerous and annoying sequel of castration, 
which is always fatal unless treated promptly and properly. 

Operative Technie — Same as outlined above for treatment of prolapse of 
the omentum, with the exception that if the loop of intestine is distended 
by gas, the gas should be released by using the small trocar and canula. If 
the internal abdominal ring is contracted or too small to permit the return 
of the intestinal loop, it becomes necessary to enlarge the ring (kelotomy) 
by using a probe point bistoury. 

INJURIES AS RESULT OF CASTING 

It is possible for the animal to receive halter burns, lacerations and abra- 
sions of various kinds. Rupture of the muscles and tendons sometimes oc- 
curs. The vertebrae and other bones may become fractured. Some horses 
present radial paralysis as a sequel of casting, while others be, 01113 ex- 
hausted and never rise after being released. The correct treatment of these 
conditions must be left to the judgment of the operator. They are men- 
tioned more as a warning to him to exercise care, good judgment, and dis- 
cretion in manipulating his restraint technie than for any other reason. 
"Safety first" should be the motto. 

COLIC 

Post-operative colic characterized by abdominal and scrotal pain, and 
not infrequently by more or less flatulence, is by no means a rare occur- 
rence, especially in old stallions and cryptorchids. 

Treatment — Choral hydrate or fluid extract Cannabis Indica in one ounce 
doses at two-hour intervals until the pain subsides. 

Peritonitis 
Septic infection is the direct cause of peritonitis as a sequela of castra- 
tion. The infection may be introduced at the time of operation by contami- 



SEQUELAE OF CASTRATION 71 

nated instruments or the hands of the operator, or it may be of post-oper- 
ative origin as a result of wound infection from manure and dirt in the 
barnyard or pasture. 

Peritonitis develops more frequently as a sequela of cryptorchid castra- 
tion than otherwise. It is one of, if not the most serious sequela of cas- 
tration. 

Symptoms — Peritonitis as a result of sepsis usually ensues two to live 
days after operation. Its development is characterized by chilly sensations, 
indisposition to move about, and in the event of moving there is a well 
marked stiffness of gait, and soreness. Restlessness, pawing with the fore 
feet, and striking at the abdomen with the hind feet. Abdomen and flanks 
tucked up and decidedly rigid. Constipation is usually present, and colicky 
pains may be shown. Tenderness on pressure to the abdominal wall, is 
noted, particularly when this pressure is made in the flank region. Ele- 
vated temperature (102° to 105° F.), quick breathing, hard and wiry pulse 
are also present. If death does not ensue in a short time, there is usually 
an extensive effusion of fluid in the abdominal cavity. 

Treatment — Purgatives should never be administered. If necessary to 
secure bowel movement it is better to resort to, and depend entirely upon 
enemas. To allay the pain there is nothing better than one ounce fluid ex- 
tract Indian Cannabis in capsules at intervals of four hours. A mustard 
plaster applied to the abdominal wall is indicated in the majority of cases. 

Prognosis — Unfavorable. 

AZOTURIA 

This is a disease caused by over-nutrition and lack of bodily exercise, the 
development of which, as a sequela of castration, is extremely embarrassing, 
to say the least. Azoturia never develops where daily exercise, either at 
work or in pasture, is allowed. However, with animals that have been well 
fed and kept confined in a stall, it is a condition which we may encounter 
at any time when casting and confining such an animal. 

On account of the danger of azoturia it is well to know whether the ani- 
mal has had sufficient exercise before you undertake to cast and tie it. 

Symptoms — After the operation is completed and the restraint appa- 
ratus removed the animal may fail to rise to his feet altogether, or upon 
rising may be stiff in one or more legs — most frequently the hind legs — 
perspiring freely, evincing pain by pawing; and restlessness. If urine is 
voided, it has the characteristic "coffee color." Swelling and rigidity of 
the muscles of the haunch (gluteus maximus) knuckling in the hind fet- 
locks, etc., are diagnostic symptoms of this affection. 

Prevention — Daily exercise. 

Treatment — Catheterization. Stimulating liniments rubbed on the affect- 
ed muscles. Internally, fluid extract of belladonna one-half ounce, sweet 



72 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

spirits of nitre one ounce, in capsules, at two-hour intervals. An aloes 
purge is sometimes beneficial. If the case is a mild one and the animal can 
stand on its feet it is advisable to tie the head up to prevent lying down. 

POST-OPERATIVE HEMORRHAGE (a) PRIMARY AND (b) SECONDARY 

(a) Primary Hemorrhage — May ensue immediately after the operation 
from failure of the emasculator to close the spermatic artery or from the 
scrotal plexus of veins being severed with the point of the knife at the time 
the incision is made. 

Treatment — Only in extremely rare instances is it necessary to artificially 
control hemorrhage of this source and character. Nature will, as a rule, 
relieve the surgeon of such responsibility, provided he will be patient for 
20 'to 30 minutes and allow her time to do it. It is more often necessary 
to treat the owner while his animal is bleeding than it is to treat the ani- 
mal itself. In a quarter of a century's experience, during which more 
than 14,000 stallions, colts and mules were castrated, not a single animal 
died as a result of primary hemorrhage, and not a single cord was ligated 
nor a scrotum packed. If a properly constructed emasculator is used, im- 
pose the utmost confidence in it, and do not become unduly alarmed every 
time a stallion or colt bleeds freely for a few minutes after castration. Re- 
member that it is impossible with the emasculator to do a bloodless oper- 
ation. If you are expecting a bloodless job you will as a rule be disap- 
pointed except in extremely anemic colts. If you are afraid of hemorrhage, 
remember that the only method of operation in which you do not get more 
or less blood is the antiquated ligature, clamp and cautery. If a stallion 
bleeds freely after castration, the best way to proceed is to place him in a 
box stall, shut the door and go with the owner to dinner. After dinner 
take a leisurely smoke with the owner — this usually consumes about an 
hour's time — after which examine the patient and you will find that nature 
has come to j^our rescue and the hemorrhage has ceased. 

(b) Secondary Hemorrhage — This form of hemorrhage invariably en- 
sues from the spermatic artery and contrary to primary hemorrhage is dan- 
geous, and may result in the death of the animal unless controlled. 
1 1 usually occurs from one to six hours after castration ; however, it some- 
times occurs several days after the operation. Hemorrhage of this char- 
acter is usually caused by a diseased condition of the arteries (hemophilia), 
increased heart action, sloughing of the spermatic cord, etc. The blood 
comes in spurts directly from the artery in a good sized stream. 

Treatment — Nature cannot be depended upon to control this class of 
hemorrhage. Sometimes it is possible to apply hemostatic forceps to the 
mouth of the bleeding vessel. When this cannot be done with the animal 
in the standing posture, cast and secure the patient in a dorsal position, 



SEQUELAE OF CASTRATION 



78 



thoroughly cleanse the parts with antiseptic solution and make an effort to 
ligate the artery. The ligature used should he ehromicized catgut (10 day). 
If silk or any other form of unahsorbable ligature material is used a scro- 
tal fistula is liable to result. In the event it is found impossible to locate 
and ligate the artery, one would be justified in packing the canal and scro- 
tum with sterile gauze and suturing the skin incision. Remove the packing 




Fig. 53 — A. Edema of sheaih fourth day after castration. 



iii twenty-four hours and irrigate the parts once daily with an antiseptic 
solution. 

EDEMA OF SHEATH AND VENTRAL SURFACE OF ABDOMEN 

Edema as a sequela of castration (Fig. 53) is a condition which we may 
reasonably expect in the great majority of instances, especially may we ex- 
pect it in aged stallions and those which are kept stabled and not allowed 
the requisite amount of exercise. Unless the sheath and abdominal swell- 



74 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



ing is associated with a local or systemic septic infection or it becomes so 
voluminous as to cause interference with voiding the urine, it is harmless 
and requires no treatment aside from opening up the wounds for free scro- 
tal drainage, and walking exercise. The swelling begins to appear on the 
third day and gradually enlarges until the sixth day, after which it be- 
gins to recede rapidly until the eighth or ninth day, at which time com- 
plete recovery has usually taken place. 




; : 



Fig. 54 — Paraphimosis eight days after castration. 



Treatment — When treatment is required, the first thing to be done is to 
wash the scrotal, inguinal and sheath regions with Lysol or Cresolis Com- 
pound (U. S. P.), one tablespoonful to a quart of water. Cleanse the 
hands in like manner. With the twitch applied and held by an assistant, 
two fingers are introduced into the scrotal wound, by forcing the lips of 
the incision apart sufficiently to afford free scrotal and inguinal canal 
drainage, after which irrigate the parts with antiseptic solution. With a 



SEQUELAE OF CASTRATION 



75 



sharp-pointed bistoury the point of the sheath (anterior portion) may be 
punctured at several dependent sites in order to allow the accumulated 
fluid to ooze out. In scarifying the sheath the blade of the knife should 
be guarded with the thumb to prevent too deep puncturing. 



PARAPHIMOSIS 



Prolapse of the penis (Fig. 54) may result from extensive inflamma- 
tion and swelling of the spermatic cords (funiculitis) and extensive edema 




Fig. 55 — A well developed schirrous cord. 



of the sheath. Generally the penis protrusion is merely a temporary affair, 
and as soon as the swelling and inflammation of the spermatic cords, 
sheath and scrotum subside the penis assumes its normal position in the 
sheath. 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 




Fig. 56 — Vulsellum forceps (8-inch). 




Fig. 57 — Schirrous cord, showing skin incision. B, Old cicatrix with imprisoned 
end of cord; C, scrotum; D, elliptical skin incision for ablating the growth. 



SEQUELAE OP CASTRATION 



i I 



Treatment — The first essential is to support the pendulent penis, as its 
great weight and position are unfavorable for absorption of the fluid and 
reduction of the swelling. Bathe the swollen parts with plenty of warm 
water to which has been added sugar of lead ( plumb i acetatis), one ounce 
to the gallon of water. With a properly constructed suspensory, a warm 
pack saturated with the above solution may be kept applied to the parts. 




Fig. 58 — Removing scbirrous cord with ecraseur. E, Schirrous cord with ecraseur 
chain around it; F. vulsellum forceps; G, ecraseur; H, right hand of op3ratcr. 



Schirrous Cord or Chronic FVniculitis (Champignon) 

Is an enlarging and hardening of the stump of the spermatic cord. It 
sometimes reaches enormous proportions, sufficiently large in some in- 
stances to fill and distend the whole inguinal canal and groin. In long 



iO ANIMAL CASTRATION 

standing chronic cases the cord is surrounded by dense adhesions. A 
genuine schirrous cord never reduces in size spontaneously, but has a 
tendency to grow larger and become harder. 

Cause — There are two principal reasons for this sequela of castration. 

1. The operator leaving the stump of the cord sufficiently long to be 
caught between the lips of the scrotal incisions during the healing process. 
This, of course, strangulates the cord and causes it to enlarge and harden. 

2. Infection either actinomycotic, streptococcic, or botryomycotic. This 
accounts for the constant pus discharge and numerous abscesses that make 
their appearance from time to time. Either ignorance or carelessness on 
the part of the operator is responsible for this condition. By removing 
enough cord and practicing cleanliness at the outset, schirrous cord would 
be to a large degree eliminated. The development of schirrous cords was 
largely reduced when the emasculator superseded the old-style clamp 
method of operating. 

Treatment — In the acute stage of development — which means two to six 
weeks after castration — the scrotal region should bs frequently cleansed 
by washing. The scrotal wound itself should be painted once every two 
days with tincture of iodin. During this period, it is well to give iodid of 
potash in four-dram doses once a day. If at the end of six weeks the 
tumefaction still persists, the radical operation — which consists in total 
ablation — is justified and in fact indicated. 

Ecstraint — Same as for ridgling castration, see page 40. 

Position — Dorsal. 

General Anesthesia is. always indicated when possible, as the operation 
is extremely painful and usually prolonged for a considerable length of 
time in order to control hemorrhage. 

Instruments, etc. — 

1. Ecraseur (Fig. 41). 

2. Threaded needles for ligating blood-vessels, suturing the skin incision 

and ligating the cord if for any reason the ecraseur fails to 
sever it. 

3. Sterile gauze in liberal amount. 

4. Hemostatic forceps (several pairs). 

5. Sharp scalpel. 

6. Vulsellum forceps (Pig. 56.) 

7. Thumb tissue forceps. 

Sterilization of Instruments, Cleansing Operator's Hands and Field of 

Operation — Same as f~r castration of the stalUon. (Pages 20- 21.) 

Operative Teehnic — With the field of operation, operator's hands, and 

instruments sterile and the animal in a dorsal position, proceed to operate 

as follows: With the scalpel make tAvo curved elliptical incisions (D, Fig. 



SEQUELAE OF CASTRATION 



79 



57) 5 inchs long with the original cicatrix (scar) B as the center of the 
island of skin to be removed. These incisions should penetrate the skin 
and subcutaneous connective tissue only. By careful dissection (both 
sharp and blunt) the cord is gradually loosened and isolated by breaking 
down the numerous dense adhesions surrounding it. The elliptical island 




Fig. 59 — Exuberant granulations which have assumed the chronic 
form and reached enormous size. 



of skin which is removed on the end of the cord should be sufficiently large 
to include all external diseased tissue, such as scars, granulations, etc. The 
tumor is now grasped with the vulsellum forceps (Fig. 58), which art 
held by an assistant in such a manner as to afford considerable direct 
upward traction. With the cord tense from traction the careful dissection. 
is continued up the inguinal canal until a point is reached well above thb 



80 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

diseased or indurated portion of the cord. If the entire cord is diseased, 
one should proceed to dissect up the canal to a point in close proximity 
to the internal abdominal ring. Usually after the cord is released from 
its scrotal adhesions the remainder of the dissection process can be com- 
pleted by tearing- with the fingers. All freely bleeding blood-vessels — 
except those in the cord itself — should be ligated as you proceed. When 




Fig. 60 — Well developed hydrocele ("water bag") in a three-year-old mule. 

A, Hydrocele. 

the growth is freed from all surrounding attachments the ecraseur chain 
should be placed around it as high up as necessary, and with continued 
traction from the vulsellum forceps the cord is quickly severed. 

If the cord is too large to be severed by the ecraseur, then ligation must 
be resorted to. In such event the cord should be transfixed and ligated 
in several sections. The scrotal wound should now be irrigated thoroughlv 



SEQUELAE OF CASTRATION 



81 



with biehlorid mercury solution in the strength of 1-1000, after which 
pack tightly with formalin gauze and suture securely. 

After-Treatment — If upon completion of the operation decided shock 
is imminent the animal should have strychnin one-half grain, and nitro- 
glycerin one-quarter grain, hypodermically. If a large amount of blood 
has been lost normal saline solution injected intravenously is indicated. 
Remove the packing in thirty-six hours and irrigate the wound daily with 




Fig. 61— Hydrocele showing skin incisions. B. Hydrocele; C, incisions; 
Miles' hooked knife. 



Lysol or Cresolis Compound (U. S. P.), a tablespoonful to each quart of 
water. 

Exuberant Granulations 
On account of some mishap in operative technic or some character of 
infection, exuberant granulations sometimes appear as sequela? of castra- 
tion. They are, of course, acute at first but in most instances disappear 
without treatment. However, if a cure is not effected in the acute stage, 



82 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



they assume a chronic form and may reach enormous proportions. (Fig. 
59.) They are usually extra-scrotal. 

If not attached to the cord their removal and after-treatment is a 
simple matter, consisting in removing the skin by dissection well around 
their base, controlling cutaneous hemorrhage and daily washing the 
wound with antiseptic solution. 




Fig. 62 — Hydrocele showing method of removal by the ecraseur. F, left hand of 

operator; G, vulsellum forceps; H, hydrocle; I, ecraseur; 

J, right hand of operator. 

Hydrocele 

{"Water hag," "water seed") — Is simply an accumulation of serous 
fluid in the testicular sac (tunica vaginalis), from which the testicle itself 
has been removed. 

Cause — There is only one cause for this condition. It may be directly 
attributed to either the operators' carelessness or ignorance. The only 
reason for the development of hydrocele as a sequela of castration is leav- 
ing too much of the tunica vaginalis in the scrotum at the time of severing 
the spermatic cord. If at least one inch of the tunica be removed then 
there is no occasion, in fact, no possibility of a hydrocele developing. 



SEQUELAE OP CASTRATION 83 

Occurence — Hydrocele rarely occurs in the stallion and colt, however, 
the reverse is true as regards the mule. Hydrocele is decidedly the most 
frequent sequela of mule castration, and nothing reflects quite so much 
— in mule-raising centers — upon a man's ability and qualification as having 
numerous mules which he castrates, develop "water seeds." While they 
do not interfere in the least with the general health and usefulness of 
the animal they are nevertheless great "eye sores," and depreciate the 
animal's marketable value, hence they should in every instance be removed 
by surgical interference. They may be unilateral or bilateral. 




Fig. 63 — Hydrocele after removal. 

Preparation — Same as for castration of the stallion. 

/Sterilization of Instruments and Operator's Hands — Same as for cas- 
trating the stallion. (See pages 20, 21.) 

Restraint — For small mules, same as for castration of the colt. (See page 
32.) For large mules, same as for castration of the ridgling. See page 
46.) 

Position — Dorsal. 

Instruments — 

1. Miles' hooked castrating knife. (Fig. 25.) 

2. Vulsellum forceps. (Fig. 56.) 

3. Eeraseur. (Fig. 41.) 

4. Hemostatic forceps. . j 



84 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

Sterilization of Field of Operation — Same as for castration of the 
stallion. (See page 21.) 

Technic of Operation — With Miles' hooked castrating knife two curved 
or elliptical incisions are made (C, Fig. 61) to the right and left of the 
most prominent part of the hydrocele (B). This means that the old cicatrix 
is in the center of the island of skin to be removed. These incisions should 
be made from four to five inches long — depending upon the size of the 
lrydroeele. They should extend through the skin and subcutaneous con- 
nective tissue only. With the vulsellum forceps grasp the island of skin 
which is to be removed with the hydrocele. Have the assistant make 
upward traction while the superficial subcutaneous adhesions are being 
carefully broken down by sharp dissection. These adhesions never extend 
deep and are readily broken down. If necessary ligate the spurting blood- 
vessels as the operation proceeds. As soon as the scrotal adhesions are 
removed from around the tunica vaginalis the operator takes charge of the 
vulsellum forceps with his left hand and with the fingers of the right tears 
the tunica vaginalis loose from its delicate fascia attachments until a point 
is reached on the spermatic cord well above where it was formerly 
severed. The chain of the ecraseur is now applied to the tunica ("sac") 
and the tunica and the stump of the spermatic cord is severed. It is rarely 
necessary to pack the scrotum to control hemorrhage. 

After-Care and Treatment — About all that is necessary is daily observa- 
tion in order to see that everything proceeds well. If sequela? arise they 
must be treated as outlined under their respective headings. 



CHAPTER VI. 



CASTRATION OF THE BULL 



Objects and Indications — The operation is usually performed for purely 
economic purposes. However, in some instances, on account of diseased 
conditions of the scrotum, testicle and spermatic cord, it becomes necessary 
to castrate. Some hulls become so vicious as to be a source of danger 
and annoyance to their owners and attendants, and castration must 
be resorted to. As an economic operation, especially in young animals, its 
value is beyond estimate. Castration increases physical development and 
hastens early growth as well as improving the texture, odor, wholesome- 
ness and nutritive properties of the beef. Bulls are also castrated for the 
purpose of producing work oxen. Another very important result of castra- 
tion is the removal of inferior or scrub bulls from the herd. 

Castrated bulls are known as steers. 

Age — From several days to several years. The younger the better. Most 
calves are submitted to the operation when about two to three months 
of age. 

Season — Early spring, late fall and winter. The bull or calf should 
never be submitted to castration during "fly time." Bovine animals do 
not possess the same instinct in protecting themselves from flies, by ward 
ing them off with the tail, as does the equine species. On this account late 
spring, early fall and summer are unfavorable seasons for castrating this 
class of animals. 

Preparation — No special preparation is necessary unless the animal is 
to be cast and tied, in which event have the alimentary tract empty by 
withholding feed for twenty-four hours before operating. 

CASTRATION OF THE BULL IN THE RECUMBENT POSTURE 

Restraint — When it becomes necessary to cast and tie the animal for this 
operation an excellent method of doing so is with the Conkey self-locking 
hobbles. (Figs. 64, 65.) 

These hobbles have the advantages of being strong, safe, quickly applied 
and easily removed. The degree of restraint afforded by them is ample, 
especially when used in conjunction with an eighteen-foot rope. The 
animal may be cast and tied on either the right or left side, at the option 
of the operator. In applying hobble straps to cattle always buckle or loop 
them above the fetlocks, otherwise there Is a tendency for them to slip 
over the foot and off'. In casting on the right side as in Fig. 65, hobbles 



86 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



are applied as follows: With an assistant (C) at the head, a "holder" in 
the nose (A) and a rope around the horns (B) buckle a hobble strap above 
both hind (G, H) and the right fore (E) proximal digital articulations. 
Buckle the master hobble strap above the left fore fetlock (D). Pass the 
end of the rope through the hobble strap (G) then through (H), then 
through (E), and lastly across through the self-locking buckle (P). By 
making traction on the rope (I) from (J) — at direct right angles to the 
animal — he is cast on the right side. After the animal is east (See Ffig. 
65) the uppermost hind leg (N) is released from its hobble strap and the 




Fig. 64 — Conkey's self-lock buckle hobblera applied. 



end of an eighteen-foot rope looped on instead of the hobble strap. This 
rope (P) is passed over the withers (0) under the neck (Q) and above 
the hock (R) in such a manner as to draw the foot against the abdomen 
and flex the hock to a certain degree. With the animal in this position the 
operation can be performed without danger to either the operator or 
patient. Calves may be held by one or more assistants without tying. 

Instruments — The emasculator (Figs. 5, 6, 7, and 8) and castrating 
knife are the only instruments needed. The Miles hooked castrating knife 
(Fig. 25) and the Williams castrating knife (Fig. 2) are equally satis- 
factory for this operation. 

Anatomy — In order to operate intelligently, some knowledge of the 
anatomy of the scrotum, testicle and inguinal canal is necessary. However, 
lack of space prevents going into details here. By reference to Fig. 66 



CASTRATION OP THE BULL 



87 



a general idea of the relation and position of the generative or reproductive 
organs of the bull may be had. 

Testicle — The testicle is a compound tubular gland ovoid in shape and 
well developed with its long axis vertical. On the epididymis is a well 
developed globus major. 

Penis — The penis is round and long. It projects far under the abdomen 
and possesses the well recognized S-shape curve. Its gland is small and 
pointed. 

Prepuce — The prepuce is located well under the abdomen. It is simply 




Fig. 65 — Bull cast and tied for castration operation. 

an elastic sheath, surrounded at its external opening by long stiff hairs. 
Its cavity is from ten to fifteen inches long. 

Scrotum — The scrotum is long and pendulous, and has a well marked 
neck. It is suspended between the thighs somewhat further forward than 
in the stallion. 

Spermatic Cord — The spermatic cord and its covering — tunica vaginalis 
— is much longer than in the stallion. 

Inguinal Canal — This canal is long and narrow, and directed almost 
perpendicular to the scrotum. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — Same as 
for castration of the stallion. (See page 20.) 

Disinfection of the Operative Field — While this step in the operative 
procedure is usually ignored entirely or done in a perfunctory manner, 
such neglect is inexcusable. On account of the danger of sepsis and other 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 




Fis 66-Generative or reproductive organs of the bull. A, Ejaculator seminalis, 
B intrapelvic portion of urethra; C, urinary bladder; D, D. ureters; E, E intra- 
abdominal portion of spermatic cords; F, S-shape curve of penis; G retractor 
muscles of sheath; H, H, tunica vaginalis; I, penis; J, prepuce; K, scrotum; L, L, 
testicles; M, M, internal abdominal rings. 



CASTRATION OF THE BULL 89 

sequelae known to follow bull castration, the operator should take the time 
and precaution necessary to cleanse and disinfect the field of operation. 
This may be quickly done as follows : 

(a) Scrub the scrotum and the inside of the thighs with soap and warm 
water until all visible dirt is removed. 

(b) Wash the parts with Lysol or cresolis compound, (U. S. P.), one 
tablespoonful to each quart of water. 



Fig. 67— Testicle of the bull. A, spermatic cord; B. testes; C. globus major of 

epididymis; D, epididymis. 

Operative Technic— There are two methods of making the scrotal in- 
cision : (a) lateral or side incisions (Fig. 68) ; (b) end incision (Fig. 69). 

Lateral or Side Incision— This method is the most popular one, as after 
recovery there is less mutilation of the scrotum. 

Grasp the left side of the scrotum in the left hand and by compressing 
it force the right testicle to the right until the skin of the scrotum is 
stretched taut. With a sterilized knife begin the incision four inches above 



90 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



tlie apex of the scrotum and bring it down to near the apex. The incision" 
should be made through the skin, subcutaneous connective tissue dartos 
and tunica vaginalis. This exposes the testicle. Grasp the testicle with 
the right hand and with the left strip the attached scrotal tissue from the 
cord until the cord itself is isolated well up to the summit of the scrotum. 
The final step of the operation consists in grasping the testicle with the 




Fig. 68 — Method of making lateral or side scrotial incision. A. Right testicle in 

scrotum; B, scrotum; C, knife; D, position of the right hand; E, position 

of the left hand; F. incision. 



left hand and making two pounds traction on its cord. With the right 
hand apply the emasculator to the spermatic cord and force the emascu- 
lator well to the top of the scrotum. By bringing the handles together the 
cord and its coverings are severed. The opposite testicle is in like manner 
removed. 

(b) The other method of making scrotal incisions (Fig. 69) consists 
in grasping the base of the scrotum with the left hand and by compressing 



CASTRATION OF THE BULL 



91 



it' force the testicles upward until the lower one-third of the scrotum can 
be severed without injuring them. With the knife in the right hand it is 
aii easy matter to remove the lower one-third of the scrotal sac. 
i The tunica vaginalis containing the testicles drops outside the remaining 
portion of the scrotum. By nicking the tunic the testicles themselves are 





i 



Fig. 69 — Method of operating in which apex (bottom) of scrotum is removed. 

G, H, testicles in scrotum; I, knife; J. position of the right hand; 

position of the left hand; L. incision. 



exposed. With the right hand grasp one of them and make two pounds 
traction on the cord, with the left hand strip the scrotal tissue from the 
cord until it is isolated well up to the summit of the scrotum. Next grasp 
the testicle with the left hand and make two pounds traction on the cord. 
With the right hand apply the emasculator and force it upward to the 
summit of the scrotum in order that a sufficient amount of spermatic cord 



92 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



may be removed. By bringing the handles of the emasculator together the 
the cord and all its coverings are severed. This method has the advantage 
of affording ideal drainage. 

After-Care — Turn out to pasture and make daily observation to see that 
all is going well. If the scrotal wound closes in such a manner as to 
interfere with drainage and cause extensive swelling, it should be opened 
and the scrotum irrigated with an antiseptic solution. 




Fig. 70 — Severing spermatic cnrd with emasculator (recumbent posture). T, 
position of right hand; U, testicle; V, spermatic cord and its covering; W, 
emasculator; X, position of left hand; Y, opposite testicle in scrotum. 



CASTRATION OP THE BULL IN STANDING POSTURE 

Restraint — If the animal has horns a strong rope may be looped around 
their base and his head drawn close up to a post. In most instances this 
is all the restraint employed. Contrary to the prevailing popular opinion 
the bull can actually kick backward about as hard as he can kick sidewise. 
In castrating bulls in the standing posture the operator must either stand 
out of range of the hind feet, confine them by means of ropes, or take 
chances on being kicked. In castrating young bulls (3 to 6 months of age) 
the standing posture is ideal and injury to the operator from kicking is 
extremely rare. 

The same instruments, preparation, disinfection of the site of operation, 



CASTRATION OF THE BULL 



93 



sterilization of instruments, scrotal incisions, etc., are employed here as 
in castrating bulls in the recumbent posture. While making the scrotal 
incision the operator should have his knife under thorough control, as at 
this time there is almost invariably an abrupt movement on the part of the 




Pig. 71— Castration of the bull in standing posture. E, Post to which the head 

is securely tied; F, rope; G, position of the left hand; H. scrotum; 

I, incision; J, position of the right hand; K. knife. 



animal which may result in the knife coming in contact with the tendo 
achillis (hamstring) and inflicting irreparable damage. Calves are cas- 
trated in the same manner as bulls. 



94 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



CASTRATION OF THE CRYPTORCHID (RIDGLING) BULL 

Compared with the horse and hog, cryptorchidism in cattle is extremely 
rare. However, such a complication does actually exist, and it behooves 
those who are expected to perform such operations to qualify themselves 
for this one. 

Objects and Indications — Same as for castration of the bull. See page 85. 

Age — Six to twelve months. 

Preparation — Withhold all food for twenty-four hours previous to 
operation. 

Position — Standing. 

Restraint — A simple, quick and efficient method of handling a bull for 




Fig. 72— Ridgling bull confined for castration. 



this operation is illustrated in Fig. 72. With a rope around the horns (B), 
if "polled" use a halter, and a holder in the nose (A), the head is made 
fast to a post (C). While the assistant continues to hold the rope attached 
to the nose the second assistant grasps the tail (D) and draws it between 
the slats of a gate or fence (E). With the animal in this position and 
thus secured, he can be castrated with little annoyance so far as body 
movement is concerned. If stocks are available, of course they should be 
used in preference to this method. 



CASTRATION OF THE BULL 



95 




Fig. 73 — Removing the testicle of a ridgling bull with the emasculator. G, Flank 
incision; H, emasculator; I. testicle; J, position of the operator's right hand. 




Fig. 74 — Flank incision closed by three interrupted sutures. K, strong linen or 

silk sutures. 



96 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

Instruments — 

1. Miles' hooked castrating knife. (Fig. 25.) 

2. Emasculator. (Figs. 5, 6, 7 and 8.) > 

3. Hair clippers. (Fig. 145.) 

4. Spaying needle. (Figs. 151, 152.) 

5. Strong flax or braided silk for flank sutures. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Hands of Operator — The 
instruments should be boiled for fifteen to twenty minutes. The operator's 
hands should be thoroughly washed with soap and warm water, using a 
scrub brush, and rinsed in Lysol or cresolis compound, (U. S. P.) one 
tablespoonful to each quart of water. 

Preparation of Operative Field — With clippers the hair in the flank 
region should be removed, after which thoroughly wash the parts with soap 
and warm water, using a scrub brush, then with Lysol or cresolis com- 
pound, (U. S. P.), one tablespoonful to each quart of water. As a further 
precaution against septic infection the skin should be painted with tincture 
of iodin. 

Operative Technic — The most popular and satisfactory method of 
operating is flank laparotomy, which is as follows : With Miles ' hooked 
castrating knife make a flank incision in the same manner and the same 
size as for heifer spaying. All the details of this incision are well illus- 
trated and described under the head of heifer spaying, and the reader is 
urged to refer to this chapter before reading further in regard to the 
technic of the operation. 

The flank incision itself is by far the most important step of the opera- 
tion, and remember that there is only one proper way to make it. Learn 
how it should be made and make it that way. 

If invading the left flank, the operators' left hand should be forced 
through the abdominal incision and a careful search made — toward the 
pelvic region — for either the testicle or spermatic cord. One or both of 
them will soon be encountered. Bring the testicle outside the abdominal 
cavity if the cord is sufficiently long to permit it. Then sever the cord 
with an emasculator and drop the stump of the cord back into the abdom- 
injal cavity. If the cord is not long enough to permit of the testicle being 
brought out of the abdomen, the emasculator or ecraseur may be passed 
through the incision and the cord severed inside the abdominal cavity. 

iThe wound is now sponged off with antiseptic solution and closed by 
three interrupted sutures. 

'.After-Care — Limit the diet for five days. Removal of sutures at the 
expiration of eight days. If "stitch abscess" forms, the sutures may be 
removed at an earlier date. 



CASTRATION OF THE BOAR 97 

Sometimes the wound becomes infested with screw worm larvae or 
maggots. In such cases the free application of either chloroform or gaso- 
line to the scrotum is indicated. This treatment also suffices to free the 
scrotum of rams and boars from maggots. 



CHAPTER VII. 



CASTRATION OF THE BOAR 



Objects and Indications — Pigs are castrated in order to facilitate their 
growth and fattening. Aside from this the operation has a tendency to 
improve their behavior when associated with other hogs, especially sows. 
Boars are often castrated when, having reached the limit of usefulness as 
breeding animals, it is decided to prepare them for market. Even when 
castrated, boars never make choice meat. However, they fatten very 
readily and their characteristic odor disappears to a decided degree. Cas- 
trated boars are known as "stags." Castrated pigs are referred ro as 
"barrows," and it is a well-recognized fast that barrows command a 
higher market price than do boars or stags. 

Castration is an operation that is practiced wherever swine are raised. 

Age — Pigs are best castrated either two weeks before, or two weeks 
after weaning. If the operation is performed at, or near weaning time it 
has a tendency to retard their growth and development. If allowed to 
run too long they become "boarish," besides the operation is more painful. 




Fig. 75 — Restraint for castration. 



CASTRATION OF THE BOAR 



99 




Fig. 76 — Restraint of a large boar for castration. 




Fig. 77 — Restraint for castration. 



100 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



Season — Hogs should not be castrated during the summer months while 
flies are prevalent. It is best to operate during the late fall, winter and 
early spring. Avoid operating in extreme cold weather. 

Preparation — No special preparation is necessary unless it be to have 
the intestinal canal comparatively empty, thus lessening the danger of 
injury from handling. 




Fig. 78 — Holding pig for castration. 



Pig. 79 — Holding pig for castration. 



Restraint — In castrating large boars it is necessary to take advantage of 
the animal to a very decided degree. This is essential, first, on account of 
the great strength of the animal compared to its size, and, second, on 
account of there being no favorable part or appendage of the hog by 
which a firm hand hold can be taken. Satisfactory restraint may be had 



CASTRATION OP THE BOAR 



101 



by several different methods. Fig'. 75 illustrates casting and tying the 
animal bv bringing three feet together. 




Fig. SO — Swine and sheep emasculator. 

To thus secure a large hog requires considerable time and much effort, 
also the services of several assistants. A favorite method of the author 
for handling large boars for this operation is graphically illustrated in 
Fig. 76. 




Fig. SI— Testicles of boar. O, Testes; P, R, epididymis; S, T, spermatic cord. 

It consists in placing the loop of a half or three-quarter inch rope over 
the neck and behind one shoulder, then throwing the rope over the beam 



102 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



above and having the assistant draw the forefeet of the hog off the floor 
by traction on the rope. This renders the animal absolutely helpless. By 
such a method the operator with one assistant can handle the largest hog. 

Another quick method of restraint for operations of this character is 
illustrated in Fig. 77. 

This consists in placing a rail or bar over the neck of the hog where it 
is held by the weight of an assistant. 

Figs. 78 and 79 illustrate two methods of holding pigs and small shoats 
for operation. 

Instruments — 

1. Williams' castrating knife. (Fig. 2.) 

2. Emasculator. (Fig. 80.) This is an instrument specially con- 




Fig. 82 — J, Hand; H, I, incisions in scrotum. 



structed for castrating swine and sheep, and is about one-half the size of 
the one used in castrating stallions and colts and about twice the size of 
the canine and feline instrument. 

Anatomy — The scrotum consists of two pouches formsd by skin, sub- 
cutaneous connective tissue, etc. These pouches are divided by a raphe or 
median line and fit up close to the perineal region. These pouches each 
contain a testicle (Fig. 81) which is decidedly shorter and more rounded 
than the testicle of many of the other domestic animals. The long axis of 
the testicle in swine is vertical. 



CASTRATION OF T1IK BOAR 



103 



Disinfection of Operative Field — Same as for castration of the bull. 
(See page 96.) 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Hands of Operator — Same 
as for castration of the bull. (See page 20.) 

Operative Teehnic — With sterile instruments, clean hands, and the 
animal properly secured, this operation is simple and an extremely easy 







Fig. 83 — Severing spermatic cord and its covering with emascnlator. K, Testicle; 
L, spermatic cord and its covering; M, emascnlator; N, opposite testicle. 



one to perform. The scrotum is firmly grasped with the left hand and 
two bold incisions made. (H, I, Fig. 82.) 

These incisions should begin well forward on the scrotum and extend 
sufficiently far back to allow the testicle to be removed from the scrotum 
without effort. The larger the incision the better. These incisions should 
be parallel to each other and to the median line. They should be from 
one-half to one inch — depending on the size of the hog — to each side of 
the median line. If for any reason the first incision was not sufficiently/ 
deep to penetrate the tunica vaginalis (sac covering testicle) and com- 
X>letely releasing the testicle from the scrotum, then with another stroke of 



104 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



the knife this tunic is incised, allowing' the testicle to escape from the 
scrotum. The testicle is now grasped with the left hand, by which it is 
advisable to apply about one to two pounds traction on the cord, after 
which apply the emasculator (M) to the cord and its covering's (L) as close 
to the skin or scrotal incision as possible, being careful that the instrument 
be at direct right angles to the cord, after which the cord is severed by 
bringing the handles of the instrument together. (Fig. 83.) The op- 
posite testicle is removed in like manner. 

After-Care — Immediately after castration it is well to turn the animals 
to pasture — preferably where there is running water. In any event get 
them away from the barn and barnyard and do not allow them access to 





Fig, 84 — Hagedorn's needle No. 
(Actual size,) 



Fig. 85 — Testicle of ridgling boar. G. 

Testes; H. globus major; I, globus 

minor; J, body of epididymis; K, 

spermatic cord. 



stagnant and filthy wallow holes. Recovery is usually prompt and the 
mortality is small. 

Sequelae — Septicemia (blood poison), peritonitis, schirrous cord, tetanus 
(lock jaw), hemorrhage. 

CASTRATION OP THE CRYPTORCHID ( RIDGLING ) BOAR 

Objects and Indications — All ridgling boars and pigs should be cas- 
trated. The principal reasons for so doing are outlined under the proper 
heading in describing castration of the boar. (Page 98.) Furthermore, 
operation is strongly advised, since the modus operandi itself is easy and 
comparatively simple and attended with little danger if proper surgical 
procedure is adhered to. 

Age — At about 25 to 35 pounds weight. 

Preparation — The pig must be gaunted. This condition is secured by 
withholding all food for twenty-four hours previous to operating. A 
plentiful amount of water may be allowed. 



CASTRATION OF THE BOAR 105 

Warning — The pig should be free from constitutional diseases and in 
good physical condition. Before operating, sec that the testicle is not 
located in the inguinal canal. This precaution is essential because of the 
fact that if the testicle isi in the canal it cannot be withdrawn through the 
abdominal incision. 

Restraint — Since the operation consists in median line laparotomy the 




Fig. 86 — Abdominal incision. 

animal should be suspended from the ground to a post or beam above until 
the site of incision is about opposite the operator's breast. 
Instruments — 

1. Miles' hooked castrating knife. (Fig. 25.) 

2. Emasculator. (Fig. 80.) 

3. Hagedorn needle (Fig. 84) carrying 20 inches of braided silk No. 
12 for abdominal sutures. 

4. Richter's needle-holder (Fig. 34). 

5. Curved scissors (6-inch) (Fig. 35.) 



106 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



Position — Hanging. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Hands of Operator — Satis- 
factory recoveries largely depend upon cleanliness, and it behooves the 
operator to take extra precautions in this particular. Simply because the 
animal is a hog is no reason why it should be carelessly operated upon. 
Boil the instruments for 15 to 20 minutes, after which immerse them in 




Fig. 87 — Severing spermatic cord with emasculator. 

clean pans containing Lysol or liquor cresolis (U. S. P.), one tablespoon- 
ful to each quart of water. 

Disinfection of Operative Field — Clip the hair from the belly from the 
umbilicus to the brim of the pubis. Wash the parts with tincture of green 
soap and warm water using a scrub brush, after which paint the skin with 
tincture of iodin. 

Operative Technic — With the animal hanging, the instruments sterilized, 
hands of the operator and the site of incision cleansed and disinfected, 
proceed as follows : Select a site either to the right or left of the median 



CASTRATION OF THE BOAR 



107 



line of the abdomen, two inches below the brim of the pubis for the 
abdominal incision (A) (Fig. 86.) Care must be exercised to avoid the 
penis, the course of which is in the median line. This incision should be 
three inches long and penetrate all the layers of the abdominal wall. The 




Fig. 88— Abdominal wall closed by three interrupted sutures. 

index and second finger are now introduced into the abdominal cavity, 
and a search made for the testicle. This organ is usually short corded and 
hangs against the posterior abdominal wall, directly in front of the abdom- 
inal incision. If the spermatic cord be long, then the testicle itself may be 
quite a distance below the abdominal incision, in which event the cord is 
located and drawn through the abdominal incision, and as a natural conse- 



108 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



quence the testicle will follow. The spermatic cord is now severed and its 
stump replaced in the abdominal cavity. If it be a double cryptorchid 
(both testicles undescended) both testicles should be removed through the 
one abdominal incision. The abdominal wall should now be closed with 
three interrupted sutures. (Fig. 88.) These sutures should be what is 
known as the through-and-through variety — all layers of the abdominal 
wall should be included in them. 

After-Care — The animal should be confined for eight or nine days in a 




Fig. 89 — Ruptured boar. 



small, clean pen ; during which period the diet should be limited. Nature 
will ordinarily take care of removal of the sutures. 

CASTRATION OP THE RUPTURED BOAR 

Scrotal hernia (rupture) in the boar occurs invariably and directly as a 
result of dilatation or enlargement of the internal abdominal ring. The 
anatomical function of the internal abdominal ring is to allow the sper- 
matic cord to pass from the abdominal cavity into the inguinal canal and 
at the same time prevent the passage of any portion of the intestines 
escaping from the cavity into that canal. 

Causes — The experience of others and my own observation lead me to 



CASTRATION OF THE BOAR 



109 



believe that scrotal hernia of the boar is one condition which can be truth- 
fully laid at the door of hereditary transmission in 95 per cent of cases. 
They are of congenital origin, the internal abdominal ring' being open at 
birth and nature fails to close it afterward. In my own practice I 
recall one sow in particular which presented her owner with a bunch of 
ruptured pigs twice each year. This sow gave birth to large litters and 
was kept as a brood sow on that account. These litters were usually about 




Fig. 90 — View of the scrotum after animal is hung up for operation. 



110 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



\ 



Fig 9i— incision in groin directly over the internal abdominal ring. 



CASTRATION OF THE BOAR 



111 



equally divided between boar and sow pigs. During the three years that 
this sow was under my observation every boar pig to which she gave birth 




Fig. 92 — View of the testicle, spermatic cord and internal abdominal ring. B, 
Internal abdominal ring; C, spermatic cord; D, testicle. 



112 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

was ruptured. Twice each year her owner would come, five miles, with 
the pigs in a market wagon for operation, and strange to say he never 
lost a pig as a result therefrom. 

Objects and Indications — All ruptured boars should be castrated for at 
least three reasons: (a) To stop their breed in order to lessen the birth 
of congenitally ruptured pigs, (b) For the same reason that boars are 
usually castrated, viz. : to increase their usefulness and value for food 
purposes, (c) In order that they may peacefully commingle with other 
hogs without exhibiting the natural and acquired sexual habits of the 
boar. 

Most that has been written and published in regard to methods of pro- 
cedure is vague and some of it misleading. If the operator follows the 
directions given by some self -denominated authorities — namely, for opera- 
tion via scrotal incision — he Mall make a haphazard job and be a monu- 
mental failure so far as permanent results are concerned. Since the direct 
cause for the bowel protruding into the inguinal canal and scrotum is 
the abnormally large opening of the internal abdominal ring, how can a 
scrotal operation be expected to correct the trouble? By no known means 
can the internal abdominal ring be reached by a scrotal incision unless it 
be by a probe and a very long and small sized probe at that. Since the 
internal abdominal ring must be closed in order to correct the condition, 
and since this ring cannot be reached via a scrotal incision, it becomes 
necessary to operate by an incision immediately over and in close proximity 
to the ring. This operation we will now illustrate and describe. 

Age — At 25 to 35 pounds weight. 

Season — Early spring, late fall and winter. 

Preparation — Withhold food for twenty-four hours in order to have the 
alimentary tract empty. 

Restraint — Suspended by means of a rope looped above the hocks and 
attached to a beam above. 

Position — Hanging just high enough so that the operative field will be 
opposite the operators' breast. 

Instruments — 

1. Miles' hooked castrating knife. (Fig. 25.) 

2. Emasculator. (Fig. 80.) 

3. Hageclorn No. 3 needle (Fig. 84) carrying 20 inches braided silk 
No. 12 for suturing the skin incision. 

4. Surgeon's full curved needle No. 5 (Fig. 181) carrying a sufficient 
amount of chromicized catgut (ten-day) to close the internal abdominal 
ring. 

5. Richter's needle-holder. (Fig. 34.) 




Fig. 93 — Closing internal abdominal ring with a purse-string suture. 



114 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



Sterilization of Instruments, Cleansing Operator's Hands and Opera- 
tive Field — Same as for castration of the ridgling boar. (See page 106.) 

Operative Technic — With the pig in position, the instruments sterilized, 
hands of the operator and the operative field cleansed and disinfected, pro- 
ceed as follows : Locate the internal abdominal ring. This can usually be 
done by pressure applied externally in the inguinal region. With the 
location of the ring as a land mark, make the incision through the skin 




Fig. 94 — Operation completed by three interrupted sutures. 



CASTRATION OF THE BOAR 115 

and subcutaneous connective tissue down to the muscular coat of the 
abdominal wall. This incision should be made about three to four inches 
long and its center should be directly over the center of the internal abdom- 
inal ring. 

Usually by this time the intestines have — by gravity — returned to the 
abdominal cavity. The next step is to incise the tunica vaginalis near the 
ring, exposing the cord. By traction on the cord the testicle can usually 
be withdrawn from the scrotum, through the inguinal canal and out of 
the incision. The testicle is now removed by severing its spermatic cord 
with the emasculator, after which the stump of the severed cord is dropped 
back into the abdominal cavity. Figs. 91 and 92 afford a comprehensive 
idea of how the operation has been proceeded with up to this point. By 
referring to Figs. 93 and 94 you will observe how it is completed. Next 
we close the inguinal ring by means of a purse-string suture applied in 
such a manner as to bring the serous surfaces of the peritoneum in close 
apposition. It is important that the suture be of absorbable material, 
otherwise it may do damage in the wound. 

The skin incision is then easily and quickly closed by three interrupted 
sutures. (F, Fig. 94.) 

Sometimes on account of the small size of the external abdominal ring 
and inguinal canal it is impossible to withdraw the testic'e from the scro- 
tum by traction on the cord. In such cases a scrotal incision is made for the 
purpose of removing the testicle only. After which proceed to drop the 
cord into the abdominal cavity and close the ring and skin incision in the 
usual way. 

After-Care — Confine the animal in a small clean pen for ten days; dur- 
ing this period limit the feed. Nature will take care of removing the 
sutures. 



CHAPTER VIII 



CASTRATION OF THE RAM 



Objects and Indications — The operation is rarely performed upon aged 
rams. Its greatest application is to lambs. Castration hastens growth and 
development and improves the character of the mutton and fleece. Cas- 




ing. 95 — Restraint and position for castration. 



CASTRATION OF TFIE RAM 



117 



t rated rams and lambs are known as wethers, and wethers command a 
much higher market price than rams. If male sheep are to be raised to 
full maturity for mutton purposes, they should always be castrated when 
lambs. 

Age — From a week to ten days old is a popular and safe age at which 
to castrate. However, some prefer operating later. There is no doubt but 
what the mortality rate following castration rapidly increases with age. 
For that reason, if for no other, the early operation is most advantageous. 

Season — Winter and early spring. Weather conditions play an import- 




Fig. 96 — Restraint and position for castration of large rams. E. Three feet 
fixed together; F and G. position of assistant's hands; H, scrotum. 



ant part in the success of the operation. Cold rains and sudden drops in 
temperature should be avoided as much as possible. An extra effort 
should be made to select seasonable weather. 

Preparation — Limited diet for twenty-four hours before operating. 

Restraint and Position — A favorite method — both as regards restraint 
and position — is for the assistant to grasp the legs and place the animal 
on its rump as shown in Figure 95. 

Figure 96 illustrates a satisfactory method of confining large and heavy 
rams for castration. Both the fore and the right hind legs are fixed to- 
gether by means of a cord (E). The assistant grasps the left hind leg (F) 



118 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

and flexes it against his body. With the right hand (G) he controls the 
head. With a ram in this position the scrotum is readily accessible. 

Instruments — 1. Williams' castrating knife. (Fig. 2.) 

2. Swine and sheep emasculator. (Fig. 80.) 

Anatomy — The scrotum is decidedly pouch shaped and possesses a dis- 
tinct constricted neck at its summit. The skin of the scrotum is covered 
by short, dense wool. The testicles are similar in shape to those of the 
bull, and their long axis is almost vertical. In comparison to the size of the 





Fig. 97 — Testicle of a ram. L, Globus major of epididymis; M. testes; 
N, spermatic cord. 

animal the testicles of the ram are unusually large. The testicle of a 60- 
pound lamb will weigh as much as the testicle of a 1,400-pound horse. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Hands of the Operator — Boil 
the instruments for fifteen to twenty minutes, after which immerse them 
in a clean vessel containing Lysol or cresolis compound (U. S. P.), one 
tablespoon ful to the quart of water. 

Disinfection of Operative Field — The scrotum should be sponged with 
a pledget of cotton saturated with an antiseptic solution. Cleanliness here 



CASTRATION OF THE RAM 



119 



goes far in obtaining successful results. If time is not too limited it is 
best to clip the wool from the scrotum. 

Operative Technic — There are two methods of making the scrotal in- 
cisions : 

(a) Lateral, Figure 98. 

(b) End, Figure 99. 

In making the lateral or side incision (Figure 98) tbe left side of the 




Fig. 9S — Lateral incision. A. Right testicle in the scrotum; B. scrotum; C, 
Williams' castrating knife; E. position of the left hand; F, incision. 

scrotum is grasped with the left hand of the operator and sufficient 
pressure made — by squeezing — to render the skin of the right side tense. 
With the knife in the right hand, the incision is made by one sw T eep of 
the knife through all layers oFthe scrotum and the testicle itself exposed. 
This incision should be about three and one-half inches long and should 
extend well down to the tip. The opposite scrotal incision is made in like 



]20 



ANIMAL CASTRATION* 



manner. With the right hand grasp the testicles and with the left hand 
strip the spermatic cords of their coverings until they are well isolated as 
high as the summit of the scrotum. With the left hand grasp the testicle 
and make two pounds traction on the cord outward, at the same time ap- 
plying the emasculator to the cord and forcing it well np near the summit 




Fig. 99 — End incision. H. Left testicle within the scrotum; G. right 
testicle within the scrotum; I, knife; K, position of the left hand; 

L, incision. 



of the scrotum. Bringing the handles of the instrument together the cord 
and its coverings are severed. 

The end-incision method (Figure 99) has many advantages over the 
one already described and is to be preferred. Grasp the apex of the 
scrotum in the left hand and remove one-third of it — by one sweep of the 
knife. The testicles surrounded by their tunica vaginalis will now drop 



CASTRATION OF THE RAM 



121 



down below the incision. By a nick of the knife incise the tunics and ex- 
pose the testicles, after which grasp them (of course separately) with the 
right hand and make outward traction, at the same time isolating the 
cords by stripping them of their coverings to a point near the summit of 
the scrotum. With the left hand grasp the testicle, at the same time pro- 
ducing two pounds outward traction on the spermatic cord. With the right 
hand apply the emasculator to the cord and by forcing it well up to the 
summit of the scrotum sever the cord and its coverings by bringing the 




Fig. 100 — Severing spermatic cords and their coverings with the emasculator. 

handles of the instrument together. Figure 100 illustrates the manner in 
which the cords are severed with the emasculator. 

After-Care — The most essential precaution to be taken after rams and 
lambs are castrated is to place them in sanitary surroundings, away from 
danger of wound contamination by barn and barnyard manure and dirt. 
In favorable weather a pasture is the ideal place. In bad weather a pre- 
viously cleaned hallway or shed, well bedded with fresh straw, is to be 
desired. Sheep are quite prone to septic infection, hence to attain success- 
ful results infection must be strictly guarded against for several days after 
castration. Tetanus is a not uncommon sequel to castration of lambs. 

Never operate during "fly time." 



CHAPTER IX 



CASTRATION OF THE DOG. 



Objects and Indications — The principal object to be attained in castrat- 
ing the dog is to deprive him of his nightly habit of visiting the female so- 
ciety members of the canine species in his neighborhood and oftentimes in 
some other male clog's neighborhood. Castration has the direct and imme- 




Fig. 101 — Restraint of dog for castration. 

diate effect of inducing a male clog to be contented with his home sur- 
roundings. The only other reason for castration would be to relieve cer- 
tain pathological conditions of the scrotum, testicle, inguinal canal and 
penis. 



CASTRATION OP THE DOG 123 

Age — Dogs may be safely castrated at almost any age. However, the 
younger the better. Puppies may be easily castrated when four weeks old. 

Season — The season plays no important part in castration of the dog. 
The operation may be done safely at any season. 

Preparation — None. 

Restraint — Always apply a tape muzzle to begin with. Small dogs may 




Fig. 102 — McKillip's canine and feline emasculator. 




Fig. 103 — Canine and feline emasculator. 

be easily and safely held by an assistant, as shown in Figure 101. The fore 
and hind legs are crossed over one another and held tightly. The index 
fingers of both hands are crossed under the throat and the thumbs are 
passed back behind the head. Held in this position the scrotum is acces- 
sible and the operation may be proceeded with safely. 



124 



ANI AI AL CASTRATK >X 



Large dogs may be held by two or more assistants or they may be se- 
cured by tying the legs together as illustrated in Figure 105. The opera- 
tor should stand out of range of the strong stream of urine which is sure to 
come as soon as the knife strikes the testicle. 

Instruments — 1. Williams' castrating knife. (Figure 2.) 2. Canine 
and feline emasculator (Figures 102 and 103). 




Fig. 104— Genitals of the dog. (Ellenberger-Leisering Atlas.) A, Acetabulum: 
B. obturator foramen; C. ischio — cavernosum portion. E. vas deferens; F, bulbus 
glandis; I, testicle; J, tunica vaginalis; K, scrotum; L, prepuce; M, spermatic 
cord. 



Anatomy — The scrotum is suspended below the anus. The raphe or 
median line is not well marked. The skin covering the scrotum is soft and 
thin and covered sparsely with short stiff hairs. 



CASTRATION OF THE DOG 



125 



Spermatic Cord — The spermatic cord and its covering' — tunica vaginalis 
-are slender in size and long. 




Fig. 105 — Scrotal incisions. K, left hand of assistant; L, scrotal incisions; 
M, legs fixed together with cord; N, muzzle. 

Testicle — The testicle is oval in shape and comparatively small. Its 
long axis is oblicpie. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing of Operator's Hands — Boil 




Fig. 106 — Severing spermatic cord with emasculator. A, Table; B. muzzle; 

C, legs fixed together with tape; D. left testicle; E. right 

testicle; F, emasculator. 



instruments for 15 to 20 minutes, and then immerse them in Lysol or cre- 
solis compound (U. S. P.), one tablespoonful to each quart of warm water. 



126 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



The operator's hands should be thoroughly washed with tincture of green 
soap and warm water, using a scrub brush, after which wash them in the 
above mentioned antiseptic solution. 

Preparation of Operative Field — If much hair is present on the scrotum 




Fig. 107 — View of the abdominal organs. G, Descended testicle; H. rectum; 

I, urinary bladder; J. undescended testicle located in the sublumbar 

region; K, intestines. 

it should be clipped off, after which the scrotum should be washed with 
an antiseptic solution and painted with tincture of iodin. 

Operative Technie — The modus operandi is very simple and the opera- 
tion requires only a few seconds time. With the left thumb and index fin- 
ger grasp the scrotum above the testicles and make its skin taut by squeez- 



CASTRATION OF THE DOG 



127 



ing. With the knife in the right hand— by two sweeps— the two scrotal in- 
cisions are made, exposing both testicles. These incisions should be amply 
large and extend well down to the lower portion of the scrotum in order to 
afford free drainage. 




Fig. 108 — Abdominal incision. 

The concluding step (Fig. 106) is to grasp the testicle with the left hand 
at the same time making slight traction on the cord. With the right hand 
the emasculator is placed on the cord and forced down close to the scrotal 
incisions. The cord is then severed by bringing the handles of the instru- 
ment together. 

After-C are— About all that is necessary is exercise and sanitary sur- 



128 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

roundings with daily observation for detecting the appearance of the sev- 
eral sequelae of castration. 

CASTRATION OF THE CRYPTORCIIID (RIDGLING) DOG. 

Objects and Indications — On account of the universally recognized fact 
that cryptorchidism in animals is hereditary, it is very important that such 




Fig. 109 — Severing spermatic cord with the emasculator. A, Incision; 
B, testicle; C, emasculator. 

a dog should not be used for stud purposes. This applies to the cryp- 
torchid with one testicle in the scrotum, since the double cryptorchid is in- 
capable of reproduction. In order to stop the breed of such animals, cas- 
tration should be resorted to. The operation is also valuable in causing a 
dog to remain contented at home. 



CASTRATION OF THE DOG 



329 



Age — All ages, preferably young dogs. 

Season — All seasons. 

Preparation — It is essential to have the alimentary tract empty. This 
is accomplished by withholding food for twenty-four hours previous to op- 
erating. 




Fig. 110 — Incision closed with three interrupted sutures. D. Sutures; E, incision. 

Restraint — Preferably on operating table elevated to a perpendicular 
position, or in the absence of a table the animal may be hung upon a wall 
or post. In either event the tape muzzle is applied as a protection against 
bites. 

Instruments — 1. Miles' hooked castrating knife. (Figure 25.) 

2. Emasculator. (Figures 102 and 103.) 



130 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

3. Kichter's needle-holder. (Figure 34.) 

4. Surgeon's needle (full curved) carrying 20 inches of No. 12 braided' 
silk for sutures. 

Anatomy — A comprehensive idea of the location and relation of the parts 
concerned in this operation can be had by reference to Figure 107. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing of Operator's Hands — Boil 
instruments for 15 to 20 minutes, and then immerse them in Lysol or Cresol 
Compound (U. S. P.) one tablespoonful to one quart of warm water. Wash 
the hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, using a scrub brush. 

Disinfection of Operative Field — Clip or shave the hair from the field of 
operation, and wash with soap and warm water until the parts are visibly 
clean. Sponge with antiseptic solution and paint with tincture of iodin. 

Operative Technic — If the left testicle is undescended a point is selected 
to the left of the median line of the abdomen and about midway between 
the brim of the pelvis and the prepuce (Figure 108). 

The incision is made two and one-half inches long — through all layers of 
the abdominal wall. Through this incision the index finger of the right 
hand is passed and a search made in the sublumbar region for the sper- 
matic cord. This cord is usually located easily. Withdraw the cord 
through the abdominal incision and the testicle follows. Sever the cord 
with the emasculator (Figure 109) and replace its stump in the abdomi- 
nal cavity. Suture the abdominal incision with two or three through-and- 
through interrupted sutures. (Figure 110). 

After-Care — The dog should be placed in sanitary close quarters for six 
or seven days; during which period no exercise must be allowed and the 
diet should be of a light, easily digestible character, and limited. The two 
end sutures may be removed on the third day and the middle one on the 
fifth day. 



CHAPTER X 

CASTRATION OF THE CAT. 

Objects and Indications — In order that they will remain contented at 
home. 

Age — The operation can he performed safely at any age. 

Season — All seasons. 

Preparation — Same as for castration of the dog. 

Restraint — Remember that a cat will scratch as well as bite and the op- 
erator should take the necessary precautions to protect himself from both. 




Fig. Ill — Castration with the cat wrapped in a towel. 

Two favorite methods of restraint — either of which is satisfactory — are 
as follows. 

(a) With all four feet tucked up against the abdomen, wrap the animal 
in a towel, leaving its posterior parts exposed. (Figure 111.) 

(b) Place the animal in an ordinary rubber boot with its hind legs 
thrust through the finger straps. See Figure 112. 

Position — Dorsal. 

Instruments — Same as for castration of the dog. See page 121. 



132 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



Anatomy — Similar to that of the dog. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — Same 
as for castration of the dog. See page 125. 




Fig. 112 — Castration with the cat confined in a rubber boot. A, Boot; B, B, finger 
• straps; C, severing the spermatic cord with an emasculator. 

Preparation of Operative Field — Same as that for castration of the dog, 
with the exception that special pains must be taken to see that the hair is 
removed from the scrotum. See page 126. 




Fig. 113 — Testicle of a cat after removal. 



Operative Technic — Same as for castration of the dog. See page 126. 
After-Care — Daily observation for the appearance of the sequelae of cas- 
tration. 



CHAPTER XI. 

CAPONIZING. 

Definition — Gaponizing is a term applied to castrating fowls. In this 
country the operation is practiced almost exclusively on male chickens 
(roosters, cockerels), and sometimes on male turkeys (toms, gobblers). Such 
fowls when castrated are known as capons. The capon bears the same rela- 




Fig. 114 — Restraint of the fowl for caponizing. A, A, Weights at the ends of the 
cords; B, cords looped around the legs; C, cord looped around the wings. 

tion to the rooster that the steer does to the bull, the barrow to the boar, 
the gelding to the stallion, etc. 

History — It is impossible to say just how long the operation of caponiz 
ing has been performed. It seems quite certain, however, that the practice 
was familiar to the Chinese more than two thousand years ago. Later it 
was practiced by the Greeks and Romans and through medieval times, by 
the people of middle and southern Europe, and in recent years it has been 



134 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



introduced into America. At present capons are most universally known 
and appreciated in France; it is only within the last few years that the 
business of producing them has advanced rapidly in this country. The in- 
dustry is largely confined to that portion of the United States east of Phila- 
delphia, though increasing numbers of capons are being raised in the 
North Central States. During the winter months, capons are regularly 
quoted in the markets of the larger eastern cities. Massachusetts and New 




Fig. 115 — Caponizing board. A, Board; C, feet imprisoned in strap loop; 
B, weight on end of strap; E, wings imprisoned in staple. 

Jersey are the great centers for the growing of capons, while Boston, New 
York and Philadelphia are the great markets. 

Objects and Indications — Caponizing changes a male chicken's disposi- 
tion to the extent that he no longer shows an inclination to fight ; he be- 
comes sluggish and quiet and more docile. The true capon never crows. 
The comb and wattles cease to grow. His society is not sought by other 
chickens — either cocks or hens — he becomes an outcast and on this account 
oftentimes takes up with baby chicks even to the extent of "mothering" 
them, scratching and working for them by day and hovering them by 
night. On account of the more peaceful disposition of the capon his body 



CAPONIZING 



135 



develops rapidly, and he grows larger and takes on fat more readily than 
the ordinary male bird. Caponizing improves the texture of the flesh, and 
it is now a well recognized fact that the flavor and texture of the flesh of a 
capon is as much improved over that of a cock as the meat of a steer 




Fig. 116 — Miles caponizing knife. 




Fig. 117 — Miles' spreaders. 




Fig. 118. — Spring spreader. 



is over that of a bull. Hence capons are entitled to and do command a 
higher market price than either cocks or hens. Capons are less trouble 
to care for and to keep within prescribed bounds than other chickens. The 
economic value of caponizing justifies its more general practice. 
Selection of Breeds — Always select birds from the large breeds for ca- 



136 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

ponizing, viz: Light Brahmas, Cochins, Plymouth Rocks, Langshans, Wy- 
andotts, Orpingtons, etc. 

Age — Two or three months is the best age at which to operate. The 
chicken should weigh from one and one-half to two pounds. Never operate 




Fig. 119 — Wire spring spreader. 




Fig. 120 — Miles' forceps. 




Fig. 121 — Scoop and hook. 




Fig. 122 — Clipping knife, scoop and hook. 

after the bird is five months of age. The mortality is low in young fowls 
and increases with age. 

Season — Summer — June, July and August. 

Restraint — The most economical and at the same time most satisfactory 



CAPONIZING 



137 



method of restraint is illustrated in Figure 114. "With a barrel or box used 
as an improvised operating table one cord is looped around the wings and 
another around the legs. The length of these cords depends upon the size 
of the box or barrel being used. To the free end of each cord a weight — 
one half brick — is attached. The fowl is now placed on the table and the 
weights produce sufficient traction on the cords to hold it in proper posi- 
tion. 

Another method of restraint favored and used by some is a specially 
constructed board. See Figure 115. It will be observed that a self-locking 




Fig. 123— Testicles of the fowl. 



staple is used to confine the wings, while the legs are confined by a loop 
strap with a weight suspended at its end. The holes through the board 
make it adjustable to all sizes of fowls. 

Instruments — Several different styles and kinds of instruments for per- 
forming the caponizing operation are on the American market. Most of 
them are satisfactory after the operator becomes accustomed to handling 
them. They consist of: 

1. Knife for making abdominal incision. (Fig. 116.) 

2. Spreaders or retractors for separating the ribs. (Figs. 117, 118 and 
119.) 



138 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



3. Appliances for removing the testicle (Figs. 120, 121, 122.) 

Some of the best of each of these are illustrated below. The operator,, 

should make his own selection. The author's preference is the "Farmer" 

Miles set. 

Anatomy — The testicles are situated in the abdominal cavity. They are 

small, bean-shaped, soft, very friable and light colored. Their location is 

on each side of the vertebral column immediately behind the lungs and in 




Fig. 124 — Diagrammatic illustration showing position of testicles of the fowl 
and the method of removal. A, Right testicle; B, left testicle; C, scoop applied 
to the spermatic cord; D, vertebral column; E, incision in last intercostal space; 
P, spreader. 

front of the kidneys. See Figure 123. They are opposite the last inter- 
costal space. Above them is the aorta and vena cava. 

Preparation — The most essential step connected with caponizing is to 
have the fowls entirely empty at the time of operating. This is accom- 
plished by withholding food and water for thirty hours. Never attempt 
to operate upon a "full" chicken unless you are looking for trouble. 

Operative Technic — Unless a satisfactory artificial light is available, the 



CAPONIZING 



139 



proper time of day at which to operate is between the hours of 10 a. m. and 
2 p. m., as at this time the sun is high and in proper position to reflect its 
bright light into the abdominal cavity. Good light is one of the essentials. 
Never attempt to operate without it. With the fowl properly confined and 
in such a position as will enable the sunlight to illuminate the abdominal 
cavity — operate out of doors — instruments and hands of the operator clean, 
proceed as follows : 

1. Pluck the feathers from the field of operation. 

2. Chill the parts by pouring a glass of ice water slowly over the skin. 




Fig. 125 — Removing the testicle with a scoop. E. Abdominal incision in last 
intercostal space; F, scoop applied; G, spreaders applied. 



Tli is chilling process has a good influence in preventing cutaneous hem- 
orrhage. 

3. Make an abdominal incision with the knife by incising the muscles in 
the last intercostal space (between the last two ribs). Since the intercostal 
artery passes along the posterior border of the ribs, this incision should 
closely follow the anterior border of the last rib. The first incision includes 
all layers of the abdominal wall with the exception of the peritoneum. 

4. Insert the spreaders and spread the ribs apart sufficiently to admit 
the scoop or forceps. 

5. Nick the peritoneum. This will open the abdominal cavity. 

6. The testicles are now located and if both are to be removed through 



140 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



one abdominal incision, the lower one should be removed first, otherwise 
the hemorrhage incident to removing the upper one would interfere with 
the removal of the lower. There is no serious objection to operating from 
both sides, in which event the upper testicle is removed first. 

With a scoop or forceps applied to the spermatic cord — care being taken 
not to include the aorta or vena cava — the testicle is removed by twisting 
the cord with several turns of the instrument. Be sure and remove the 
entire testicle, for if any portion of it is left the fowl will crow, and be 
what is known as a "slip." Slips are not capons and are undesirable. 

7. Remove the spreaders. This allows the ribs to come together and 
close the abdominal wound. If a mistake has been made by severing either 




Fig. 126- 



-Removing testicle with Miles' forceps. J, Spreaders applied; 
K, forceps applied; L, abdominal incision. 



aorta or vena cava the fowl will die in a very few minutes from internal 
hemorrhage. Should this occur the fowl may be used for food. 

On account of the almost complete immunity of the chicken from septic 
infection, healing of the wound usually takes place by first intention, and 
the fowl makes a quick and satisfactory recovery. 

After-Care — Upon being released from the operating table the capons are 
usually put in a closed yard where they can find shelter, food and water 
and can be kept quiet. No roosts are provided, as the less flying and jump- 
ing they do the sooner the wound heals. The capons seem to be very little 



CAPONIZING 141 

inconvenienced by the operation, and water and soft feed mixed with sweet 
skim milk may be given immediately. Some feeders give this in unlimited 
quantity; others feed more sparingly for a time. 

For a week or ten days the newly made capons should be carefully ob- 
served to see whether they become "wind puffed." This is a condition 
caused by air gathering under and puffing out the skin near the wound. 
When observed it can be readily relieved by pricking the skin with a needle 
or knife and pressing out the air. 

Mortality — About one to two per cent. 



PART II. 



SPAYING. 



Synonyms — Ovariectomy, Oophorectomy, Ovariotomy. 
Definition — Spaying is a term applied to the operation of unsexing the 
female domestic animal. 



CHAPTER I. 

MARE SPAYING. 

Objects and Indications — The principal indication for removing the 
ovaries from mares is to correct the disagreeable and dangerous condition 
known as nymphomania, the symptoms of which are as follows : Usually 
when such animals are touched, especially while applying harness and 




Fig. 127 — Restraint for spaying in the standing posture. 



saddles, they squat, switch their tails, kick, bite, urinate, etc., while at the 
same time the clitoris moves actively, as during estrum. Some nympho- 
maniac mares are affected with such behavior continuously, while in others 
it is periodical. The intensity also varies in degree in different individuals. 
Some are affected to the extent of actual viciousness. Such animals are a 
public and private nuisance, undesirable to own and dangerous to the at- 
tendant. Removal of the ovaries usually corrects, the trouble. The results 



144 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



of the operation are not immediate. In fact, even apparent improvement 
may not be noted until several weeks — possibly months — have elapsed. 
The improvement is gradual and oftentimes slow, even after it actually 
begins. Spaying is always justified in mares of this class. 




Fig. 128 — Colin's scalpel. 

Age — Spay regardless of age when operation is indicated. 
Season — Spring, winter and fall. 

Preparation — It is necessary for the intestinal tract — the rectum in par- 
ticular — to be empty. This is usually accomplished by withholding feed for 




Fig. 129 — Williams' ratchet spaying ecraseur. 

thirty hours previous to operating. To make sure that the rectum is empty 
it is well to administer an enema immediately before operating. Douche 
the vagina and wash the anus, vulva, tail and surrounding parts with Lysol 
or cresolis compound (U. S. P.), one tablespoonful to each quart of water. 
Bandage the upper one-third of the tail. Chloral or Cannabis Indica ad- 




Fig. 130 — Dunn's spaying ecraseur. 



ministered thirty or forty minutes before operating is helpful in most in- 
stances. 

Position — Standing. 

Restraint — If a suitable operating stock is available it should be used. 
In lieu of stocks a narrow box stall and slings are the next best method of 



MARE SPAYING 145 

restraint for the spaying operation. When a narrow stall and sling are 
used it becomes necessary to confine the hind feet in such a way that the 
operator is not subjected to the danger of kicks. The simplest method 
which will answer the purpose is illustrated in Figure 127. It consists of 
the nose twitch applied and held by an assistant; also an eighteen-foot 
three-quarter inch cotton rope and one hobble strap. Loop the end of the 
rope around the off hind pastern, pass it through the D-loop or ring of the 
near hind, then upward and forward between the fore legs, over the with- 
ers and under the main rope behind the elbow. Another method is the 
hippo lasso. (Figs. 135 and 136.) 

While the last two methods described are simple and will answer the 
purpose, there is at least one quite serious objection to them, viz : The ani- 
mal may in her struggles cast herself, or she may voluntarily lie down, 
which greatly interferes with the progress of the operation. Whenever 
possible it is always advisable to fortify yourself against the animal lying 
down by placing her in a sling. Restraint as illustrated in Fig. 127, sup- 
plemented by a sling, is very satisfactory. 

Instruments — 1. Colin 's scalpel (Fig. 128) is decidedly the most satis- 
factory knife for vaginal spaying. This knife has a heavy blade with wide 
belly guarded by an easily manipulated sliding shield. A knife thus con- 
structed can be safely handled inside the vaginal canal. 

2. Williams' ratchet spaying ecraseur (Fig. 129) is so constructed 
that it takes up very little space in the vaginal canal, and is sufficiently 
long to reach the ovaries of the largest mare or cow. The ratchet handle 
enables the operator to manipulate the instrument with one hand while 
the other hand remains in the cavity. If an extra assistant is available to 
handle the instrument on the outside, Dunn's spaying ecraseur (Fig 130) 
is an excellent instrument. 

3. Vaginal spaying speculum. There are two satisfactory spaying spec- 
ulums now on the market. A. Williams' speculum (Fig. 133) ; B. Pase- 
ley's speculum (Fig. 134). 

Anatomy — In order to spay mares satisfactorily it is essential that the 
operator have a general idea of the anatomy of the vulva, vagina, uterus 
and ovaries. Lack of space here forbids going into minute detail. How- 
ever, the more important points will have attention. 

Vulva — The vulva is the external opening of the genital and urinary 
tracts. It is an ovoid slit situated in the perineal region below the anus, 
and consists of two lips and two commissures. The space between the 
vulva below and the anus above is the perineum. In a depression on its 
floor (fossa navicularis) lies the clitoris. In virgin mares the hymen sepa- 
rates the vulva from the vagina. Inside, on the floor of the vulva, opens 
the meatus urinarius, which is the outlet from the bladder. The mucous 



14G 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



membrane lining the vulva is rose colored, and the skin covering it extern- 
ally is soft, thin and devoid of hair. 

Vagina— The vagina is situated between the rectum and bladder, and 
is tubular in shape. It extends horizontally through the pelvic cavity from 




Pie 131— View of internal genitals of the mare. A, Rectum; B, vagina; C. uterus; 
D, DcornuI;EB ovaries; F, F, broad ligaments; G, G. abdominal walls. 

the cervix to the vulva. Its walls are capable of great distention. The 
vagina varies in length in different individuals. It is usually from eight to 
ten inches long. Superiorly it is related to the rectum, infenorly to the 
bladder, laterally to the pelvic wall. 



MARE SPAYING 



147 



Uterus — The uterus is a musculo-membranous sae situated partly in the 
pelvic region. It consists of a body and two cornua. Superiorly it is re- 
lated to the rectum, which passes between its horns while it is suspended 
laterally by the broad ligaments. Inferiorly it is related to the bladder and 
convolutions of the intestines. Its anterior extremity is known as the 
fundus, and is continuous with the cornua. Its posterior extremity is con- 
tinuous with the vagina, constituting the cervix or neck of the uterus. The 
cervix is round, hard and thick. In its center is a tube-like opening (fis- 
sure). The cornua spring laterally from the anterior extremity of the 
uterus and pass upward and forward, and to these the suspensory liga- 
ments are attached. At their summit the fallopian tubes enter. The uterus 



Fig. 132 — External and internal genital organs of the mare. B, Vagina; C, cervix 
neck of womb) ; U, D, horns and fallopian tubes; E, E, ovaries; F, fundus. 

has three openings, viz : the ostium internum leading through the cer- 
vix, and the ostium uterinum at the end of each horn. 

Fallopian Tubes — These are prolongations of the uterus, their purpose 
being the conveying of the ovum from the ovaries to the uterus. They are 
ten to twelve inches long and extend from the ovaries above to the cornua 
below. At the upper outlet of the fallopian tubes is the fimbriated ex- 
tremity, which is funnel-shaped and receives the ovum direct from the 
ovary. 

Ovaries — The ovaries are bean-shaped and weigh from one to three 
ounces. They are situated in the sublumbar region of the abdominal cav- 



148 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 




Fig. 133 — Williams' spaying speculum, showing the hand and knife in position for 

making the vaginal incision. 



ity about four to five inches behind each kidney. They hang about two to 
three inches to each side of the center of the vertebral column. They are 
attached above in the sublumbar region by the anterior part of the broad 
ligament. In old animals the ovaries are usually hard and fibrous. How- 




Fig. 134 — Paseley's spaying speculum, showing position of the hand and the knife 
for making the vaginal incision. 



MARE SPAYING 



149 




Fig. 135— Mare confined by hippo lasso. A, Right hand carrying Colin's scalpel; 
B, left hand manipulating spaying speculum. 

ever, cysts are by no means uncommon. The ovarian artery supplies nutri- 
tion to the ovary. 

Warning — The rectum must be empty, otherwise it is liable to injujry 
from the point of the knife when it is thrust through the vaginal roof. In 




Fig. 136 — Removing the ovaries. E, Spaying ecraseur. 



150 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



making the incision be sure to press the cervix downward and forward 
with the spaying speculum in order to get the site of incision away from 
the rectal wall. 




Fig. 137 — Making the vaginal incision. A, Position of right hand and arm; B, 
uterus; C, anus; D, vulva; E, spaying speculum; F, vagina; G. cervix; H, urinary 
bladder I, broad ligament; J, rectum; K, position of left hand; L, left ovary; M, 
location of knife thrust through the roof of the vagina; N, vaginal incision. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — The in- 
struments should be boiled for fifteen to twenty minutes, after which place 



MAfcE SPAYING 



151 



them in Lysol or cresolis compound (U. S. P.), one tablespoonful to each 
quart of water. The operator's hands should be thoroughly washed with 




Pig. 138 — Removing the ovary with the ecraseur. A. Position of the right arm; 
B, uterus; C, anus; D, vulva; E, ecraseur; F, vagina; H, urinary bladder; 
J, broad ligament; M, vaginal incision; N, right hand; P, rectum; S, ovary. 

tincture of green soap, using a scrub brush, and then with the above men- 
tioned antiseptic solution. 

Operative Technic — 1. With the right hand lubricated with surgical jelly, 



152 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

carry the spaying speculum (Figs. 133 and 134) into the vagina, and insert 
its tip into the cervix (neck of womb). 

2. Withdraw the hand, and with Colin 's scalpel reenter the vagina. 

3. With the left hand elevate the handle of the speculum and make suf- 
ficient pressure downward and forward to stretch the roof of the vagina. 

4. With the blade guarded it is pressed against the roof of the vagina 
directly over the cervix. 

5. Unguard and thrust the blade through the roof of the vagina. (Fig. 
137). 

6. Reguard the blade and withdraw the knife, at the same time with- 
drawing the spaying speculum. 

7. With the right hand re-enter the vagina and enlarge the opening by 
stretching with the fingers until the whole hand enters the abdominal cavity. 

8. Introduce the ecraseur and locate and sever the ovaries from their 
attachment, by placing a loop of the chain above the ovary, and with the 
left hand the ratchet handle is manipulated back and forth until the broad 
ligament is severed. Withdraw the ovary from the abdominal cavity and 
drop it in the vagina. The opposite ovary is then removed in like manner, 
after which withdraw both ovaries and the ecraseur. The operation is now 
completed. By reference to figures 137 and 138 a comprehensive idea of 
the various steps of the operation may be obtained. 

After-Care — Keep the head haltered up for twenty-four hours to pre- 
vent the patient from lying down. The vaginal wound requires no treat- 
ment. The mare is simply placed in a sanitary box stall, where she is 
allowed to remain for ten to twelve days, after which she should be put 
back to hard, steady work until the habit is forgotten. 

Sequelae — Colic and peritonitis. 



hi 



CHAPTER II. 
1 

COW, HEIFER AND CALF SPAYING. 
COW SPAYING. 

Objects and Indications— Cows are spayed for two principal reasons: 
1st, to correct that disagreeable condition known as nymphomania ; 2nd, to 
increase the duration of the lactation period. Spaying is the only rational 
treatment for certain forms of nymphomania, and cows thus affected should 
either be submitted to the operation or sent to the butcher. While the op- 




Fig. 139 — Spaying chute and stocks. 

eration has not been generally and extensively practiced as a means of con- 
trolling lactation, nevertheless spaying a milch cow during the height of 
lactation will not only cause her lactation period to continue for from 
two to three years, uninterrupted by estrum and pregnancy, but the quan- 
tity and quality of the milk is increased and improved. Milk from spayed 



154 



ANI M AL CASTRATK >N 



cows contains an increased amount of cream, casein and sugar. It is more 
palatable and more wholesome than milk from unspayed cows. When lac- 
tation finally ceases a spayed cow readily takes on fat and is easily put in 
shape for the butcher. The results attained wherever the operation has 
been practised justify its more general adoption. 

Age — For treatment of nymphomania cows are spayed regardless of age. 
For increasing the duration of the lactation period it is best to operate 
after the udder has attained its full development and while at the height 
of lactation, i. e., when the second or third calf is about three to four weeks 




Fig. 140 — Cow tied to a fence for the spaying operation. 

old. Some cows are in their prime with the second calf, others not until 
the third calf. The udder never develops and the milk flow never increases 
after spaying, hence it behooves the operator not to make a mistake in se- 
lecting the time to operate. Never operate during the estral period. 

Season — Since the vaginal operation is the method recommended, the sea- 
son does not play an important part. The spaying may be done with safety 
at any season. 

Preparation — The alimentary tract, especially the rectum, should be 
empty. Hence it is necessary to withhold feed for thirty hours previous 
to operating. Immediately before operating the rectum should be emptied 
either by "back raking" or by a copious enema. 

Restraint — The operation should always be performed with the animal 



COW, HEIFER AND CALF SPAYING 155 

in the standing posture. Stocks (Fig. 139) are preferable when available. 
However, when stocks are not at hand the animal may be quickly fastened 
to a wall or fence with ropes (Fig. 110.) The head is first fastened to the 
post, after which a, 80-foot rope is looped around the body and fastened to 
to a fence or wall as shown, in this position the animal can be readily 
spayed without her casting herself. 

Position — Standing. 

Instruments — 1. Colin *s Scalpel. (Fig. 128.) 

2. Williams' ratchet spaying ecraseur (Fig. 129), or Dunn's spaying 
ecraseur (Fig. 130). 

3. Williams' spaying speculum (Fig. 133), or Paseley's spaying specu- 
lum (Fig. 134). 

1. Injection pump. 

Anatomy — The anatomy of the internal and external generative organs 




Fig. 141 — Internal and external genitals of the cow. A, Vulva; B, vagina; 
C, uterus; D, D, horns; E, E, ovaries. 

of the cow simulates that of the mare to some extent. However, in order 
that the comparison may be studied, we will take up briefly each organ 
separately. 

Vulva — The vulva possesses two thickened labia and two sharp commis- 
sures, the lower of which is pointed and contains a number of long,, stiff 
hairs. 

The clitoris is small and located in the lower commissure of the vulva. 

Vagina — The vagina of the cow is larger and longer than that of the 
mare. It varies in length from eight to fourteen inches. Its wall is thick. 
The meatus urinarius opens into its floor about five inches from the vulva. 

Uterus — The uterus is short and lies almost entirely in the abdominal 
cavity. Its cornua are very long and gradually taper toward the fallopian 
tubes. The cervix is four and one-half to five and one-half inches long and 
its wall is thick and tough. Its lumen (cervical canal) is sharply curved 



156 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



and small. The internal walls of the uterus and horns are studded with 
cotyledons, oval in shape and about eighty to ninety in number. 

Fallopian Tubes — The fallopian tubes are longer in the cow than in the 
mare. Their junctions with the cornua are not so abrupt as in the mare. 

Ovaries — The ovaries are very small in comparison to the size of the ani- 




Fig. 142 — Making the incision through the vaginal roof. A, Position of the 
right arm; B, uterus; C, anus; D, vulva; E, spaying speculum; F, vagina; G. 
cervix; H, urinary bladder; I. broad ligament; J, rectum; K, position of the left 
hand; L, ovary; M, point of knife outside the vagina; N, perforation in roof of 
vagina. 



COW, HEIFER AND CALF SPAYING 



157 



mal. They are oval in shape and situated usually a little above the middle 
of the lateral margin of the pelvic inlet. However, it is by no means un- 
common to find them several inches from this location. 

Warning — Unless the rectum is empty and the cervix forced downward 
and forward with the spaying- speculum, the rectal wall is liable to be punc- 
tured with the point of the knife. 




/ 



Fig. 143 — Severing ovary from the broad ligament with the ecraseur. A, Posi- 
tion of the right arm; B, uterus; E, ecraseur; F, vagina; H, urinary bladder; J, 
broad ligament; K, position of the left hand; M. vaginal perforation; N, position 
of the right hand; P, rectum; S, ovary. 



158 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — Every 
instrument used in connection with this operation should be sterilized by 
boiling fifteen to twenty minutes, and then placing them in Lysol or fere- 
solis compound (U. S. P.), one tablespoonful to the quart of water. The 
operator's hands should be thoroughly washed with tincture of green soap, 
using a scrub brush, and then rinsed in the above solution. The operator 
should not be required to assist in handling the animal. This should be left 
to assistants. 

Operative Technic — 1. Douche the vagina thoroughly with the antisep- 
tic solution, using an injection pump. 




Fig. 144 — Restraint of heifer for flank operation. 



2. Wash the anus, vulva, and the upper third of the tail with the anti- 
septic solution, using cotton sponges. 

3. Lubricate the right hand and arm with surgical jelly. 

4. With the handle of the spaying speculum in the left hand, the right 
is passed into the vagina and the tip of the speculum placed in the cervix. 

5. Withdraw the right hand, and with Colin 's scalpel reenter the vagi- 
na and place the knife — with blade guarded — against the roof of the vagi- 
na immediately over the cervix. (Fig. 142.) 

6. With the left hand raise the handle of the spaying speculum and 



COW, HEIFER AND CALF SPAYING 159 

make downward and forward pressure sufficient to stretch the walls of the 
vagina taut. 

7. Unguard the blade of the knife and thrust it through the vaginal 
roof, including the peritoneum, after which re-guard the blade and drop 
the knife on the floor of the vagina. 




Fig. 145 — Hair clipper. 

8. With the index and second finger enlarge the perforation by stretch- 
ing and tearing until the whole hand can be thrust into the abdominal 
cavity. 

!). With the left hand pass the eeraseur into the vagina, where its chain 




Fig. 146 — Curved head spaying emasculator. 

is grasped with the right hand and carried into the abdominal cavity. One 
of the ovaries is now located, the chain loop placed above it, and by ratch- 
et movement of the handle the chain loop is closed and the ovary's attach- 
ment severed. The opposite one is removed in like manner, and both are 



160 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

brought out when the hand, the ecraseur and the knife are withdrawn. 

After-Care — Sanitary quarters and a limited diet for several days con- 
stitute the necessary after-care. 

HEIFER SPAYING. 

Objects and Indications — Heifers are spayed for the sole purpose of in- 
creasing their desirability as beef animals. Spaying appears to modify or 
alter the entire organism, especially as regards external symmetry and 
muscular development. It is followed by a decided tendency to quicker 
growth, and spayed heifers take on fat rapidly at any age. Such animals 
can be grown to maturity without the inconveniences of estrum and preg- 




Fig. 147 — Spaying emasculator. 

nancy, and command the same price on the market as steers. They may 
be allowed to mingle with other animals in the herd — including bulls — 
with the assurance that pregnancy will not occur. The operation has been 
practiced extensively on the western range for many years with gratifying 
results. It should be encouraged and more widely practiced wherever beef 
cattle are grown. As an economic operation its value is hard to overesti- 
mate. It is indeed a simple and easy operation to perform, and is accom- 
panied by a low mortality rate. Where once introduced its many merits 
commend its more general practice. 

Age — The most preferable age is eight to twelve months, care being 
taken to operate before the heifer becomes pregnant. 

Season — Spring and fall. Spaying should be done in the spring before 
flies appear, or in the fall after they disappear. It is not advisable to op- 
erate during fly time. 

Preparation — Withhold feed for twenty-four hours previous to operat- 



COW, HEIFER AND CALF SPAYING 161 

ing iii order to have the alimentary tract comparatively empty. Water 
in limited quantities may be allowed. 

Position — Standing. 

Restraint — Spaying stocks (Fig. 139) are ideal means for restraint. 




Fig. 148 — Spaying emasculator. 




Fig. 149 — Jamison's spaying knife. 




Fig. 150 — Suturing fork. 

When stocks are not available the quickest and at the same time one of the 
best methods of restraint is to tie the head to a gate post and have an as- 
sistant draw the tail between the slats of the gate above the animal. (Fig. 
114.) The object in using a crack above the animal is to prevent its lying 
down. A good strong assistant — by traction on the tail— can hold the ani- 
mal against the gate in such a manner as to limit movement from side to 



162 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 




Fig. 151— Miles' palm needle. 




Fig. 152 — Mooy's needle. 




Fig. 153 — Making skin incision. L, Incision; M, knife. 



COW, HEIFER AND CALF SPAYING 



163 



side and up and down. In this position the flank region is readily avail- 
able for operation. 

Instruments — 1. Hair clippers. (Fig. 145.) 

2. Curved head spaying emasculator. (Fig. 146). This is by far the 
most satisfactory instrument yet devised for Hank spaying. It is easy to 
handle, takes up very little space in the incision and abdominal cavity, and 
controls hemorrhage perfectly. Two other spaying emasculators (Figs. 
147 and 148) are fairly satisfactory. Figure 147 is an especially good one. 




Fig. 15 



-Skin Incision. F. External oblique abdominal muscle. 



3. "Farmers" Miles' hooked castrating knife (Fig. 25), or Jamison's 
spaying knife (Fig. 149.) The author prefers the Miles knife. 

4. Suturing fork. (Fig. 150.) The fork is used to hold the edges of 
the skin wound while the needle is being thrust through. It is also pro- 
vided with a knife for cutting suture material. 

5. Suturing needle. There are two needles suitable for closing the 
wound: (a) Miles' palm needle (Fig. 151), and Mooy's ring handle needle 
(Fig. 152). The author prefers the Miles needle. However, in the West 
.many spayers use the other style needle. 

6. Curved scissors. (Fig. 35.) 



164 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



7. Suture material. This may be either linen or silk. The author pre- 
fers No. 15 braided silk. 

Anatomy — The anatomy of the internal and external genital organs of 
the heifer is the same as that of the cow. (See page 155.) The flank re- 
gion possesses a well defined triangle, through the center of which the ab- 
dominal incision is made. The tissues penetrated by this incision are as 
follows: skin, subcutaneous connective tissue, fascia, external and inter- 
nal oblique abdominal muscles and the peritoneum. 




Fig. 155 — Severing the ovary. O, Position of left arm; P, incision; Q, emascu- 
lator; R, position of right hand. 



Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Hands of Operator — Same 
as for cow spaying. (See page 158.) If the operator is right-handed, it is 
best to invade the left flank. If left-handed, the right flank should be 
selected. 

Operative Technic — 1. Clip the hair from the site of operation. 

2. "Wash the parts with soap and warm water, using a scrub brush. 
Special care should be taken to remove all loose hair from the field, and 
sponge with antiseptic solution. As a further precaution against septic in- 
fection it is well to paint the skin with tincture of iodin. 



COW, HEIFER AND CALF SPAYING 



165 



3. Beginning 2 inches below the transverse process of the lumbar ver- 
tebrae, a slightly diagonal incision, three and one-half inches long, should 
be made through the skin only. The exact site of this incision is througjh 
the middle of the triangle between the external angle of the ilium and the 
posterior border of the last rib. (See L, Figs. 153 and F, 154.) 

4. In the center of this skin incision the knife point should be thrust 
through the abdominal wall, making a perforation large enough to admit 




Fig. 156 — The skin incision closed by three interrupted sutures; N, heavy silk or 
linen sutures; O, lips of the incision accurately approximated. 



one finger only. The knife is now put aside, as there is no further usie 
for it. 

5. One finger of the operating hand is thrust through the perforation 
in the abdominal wall, and by stretching the wound, two fingers are ad- 
mitted — index fingers of each hand. With these two fingers the muscular 
fibers are torn apart sufficiently to admit the whole hand. 

6. With the left hand inside the abdominal cavity the body of the 



166 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



uterus is located, after which follow its righl eornu upward and back- 
ward until the right ovary is encountered. 

7. With the right hand the emasculator is passed along the left arm 
through the incision, and its head placed above the ovary; bringing the 
handles together the ovary is severed from its attachment. (Fig. 155.) 

8. The left ovary is now located by following the right eornu back to 

=1 




Fig. 157 — E, Muscular fibers of inter- 
nal oblique and external oblique 
muscles slightly divided; F, F, external 
oblique abdominal muscle; G, G, lips of 
skin incision. 



Fig. 158 — A, Opening in abdominal 
wall sufficiently large to admit the 
hand; B. B. external oblique muscle 
fibers drawn apart; C. C. internal 
oblique muscle fibers drawn apart; D. D. 
lips of skin incision drawn apart. 



the body of the uterus where the left eornu is encountered. By following 
it upward and backward the left ovary is encountered and removed in 
like manner. 

9. Withdraw the hand — containing both ovaries — with the instrument. 
When this is done the fibers of the internal and external oblique abdomi- 
nal muscles come together and anatomically close the wound with the ex- 
ception of the skin incision. 



COW, IIKIFER AND CALK SPAYING 



167 



10. Willi three interrupted sutures the skin incision is closed and the 
operation is completed. (Fig. 156). 

Incision Illustrated and Explained — The exact method of invading the 
abdominal cavity through the Hank incision is of special importance if suc- 
cessful spaying is lo he done. Undoubtedly the incision is the most im- 
portant step of the whole operation, it is made and closed as follows: 




Fig. 159 — Skin incision closed by three interrupted sutures. H, H, Lips of skin 
incisions; I. J. K. silk sutures. 



(See Figs. 157, 158 and 15!). Study these illustrations carefully.) With 
the knife in the right hand the skin incision G-, G, (Fig. 157) is made. The 
point of the knife is thrust through the remaining portion of the abdominal 
wall (external oblique and internal oblique abdominal muscles and perito- 
neum). With the fingers this perforation (A. Fig. 158) is enlarged by 
tearing the fibers of the external oblique apart, B, B, and at the same time 
those of the internal oblique, C, C, are separated in the opposite direction 
until the hand can be admitted. When the hand is withdrawn the mus- 



168 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



cular fibers automatically come together (Fig. 157) and practically close 
the wound with the exception of the skin incision, which is closed with 
three interrupted sutures, and the operation is completed (Fig. 159). 

This method of making the flank incision far excels in every respect the 
one which requires cutting through the abdominal muscles. When these 




Fig. 160 — Calf cast and tied for spaying operation (flank method). 



muscle fibers are cut it makes a large gaping wound which requires weeks 
and oftentimes months to heal. With the fibers divided by tearing, the 
skin alone is sutered and the whole wound heals rapidly. 
After-Care — Place the animals at pasture or in sanitary quarters. The 




.Fig. 161 — Removing ovary from calf (flank method). K, Ovary; L, emasculator. 



COW, HEIFER AND CALF SPAYING 



169 



wounds should be observed from day to day for stitch abscesses, eta. 
Should abscesses develop, the suture should be removed and the pus allowed 
to escape. The sutures should be removed, when possible, about the eighth 
day. Oftentimes the sutures are not removed, in which event they finally 
slough out. 




A & 



Fig. 162 — Incision (belly method). 



CALF SPAYING 

Objects and Indications — Calves are spayed for the same purposes that 
heifers are spayed, viz. : the operation hastens their growth and develop- 
ment, besides improving the texture and nutritive properties of the meat. 
Spayed calves may be raised to full maturity without the annoyance of 
either estrum or pregnancy. Another reason for calf spaying is that the 
mortality rate is less in young than in older animals. There are two ap- 
proved methods of spaying calves, viz. : the belly method and the flank 
method. 



170 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



Ayr — The favorite age for calf spaying is two to four months. 
Season —Spring and fall. 
Preparation — Same as for heifer spaying. 

Position — Lateral, recumbent or hanging, depending upon whether the 
belly or the flank is to be invaded. 

Restraint — For the flank operation the calf is simply stretched full length 




Fig. 163 — Removing ovary (belly method). C. Incision; D, ovary; E, emasculator. 



on the ground by a rope looped above the hind and fore fetlocks. (Fig. 

160.) For the belly operation the animal is suspended by a cord or a small 

rope looped over both the hocks and attached to a beam or hook above. 

The height at which the animal is suspended should be such that the 

incision is about opposite the breast of the operator. 

Instruments — Same as for heifer spaying. (See page 155.) 
Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — Same as 

for heifer spaying. (See page 158.) 

Operative Technie — (Flank method.) The hair is clipped from the site 



COW, HEIFER AND CALF SPAYING 



171 



of incision. The parts are washed with soap and warm water, and then 
sponged with an antiseptic solution. As a further precaution against septic 
infection it is well to paint the skin with tincture of iodin. The incision is 
made similar to that employed in heifer spaying (pages 158, 150), with the 
exception that in the calf a much smaller one is used since only the index 
and second finger are introduced into the abdominal cavity; whereas in 




Fig. 164 — Incision closed by interrupted sutures. 



heifer spaying the whole hand is inserted. With the two fingers inside the 
abdominal cavity a search is made for the uppermost uterine horn, fallo- 
pian tube or ovary. One or the other of these is usually found with little 
difficulty by wiping downward and backward toward the pubic brim. "When 
located the ovary is brought up into the incision and its attachments 
severed with the emasculator. The opposite ovary is located and removed 
in like manner. (Fig. 161.) The skin incision is closed by two interrupted 
sutures. 

Operative Technic (Belly method) — With the calf suspended by the hind 



172 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

legs, the hair is clipped from the site of incision and the parts thoroughly 
washed and disinfected the same as for spaying by the flank method. 
Begin the incision in the median line two inches below the brim of the 
pubis, and extend it downward for three inches, penetrating all the layers 
of the abdominal wall. (Fig. 162.) With the index and second finger 
inside the abdomen the ovaries are readily located and brought into the 
incision and their attachments severed with the emasculator. (Fig. 163.) 
The incision is closed by three or four through-and-through sutures. 
(Fig. 164.) 

After-Care — Same as for heifers. (See page 160.) 

Sequelae of Cattle Spaying — Hemorrhage, septic peritonitis, abscess, 
general sepsis, hernia and bloating are the most common sequelae. 



CHAPTER III. 



SPAYING SOWS 



Objects and Indications — The paramount purpose of this operation is to 
improve growth, fattening, marketing and slaughter qualities without the 
handicap of early pregnancy. The economic importance of sow spaying is 
recognized by many swine owners. Formerly the operation was more 
generally practised than at the present day. This may be accounted for by 
the fact that what would have formerly been termed revolutionary methods 
in raising and marketing hogs are now in vogue in the great swine-raising 
sections of the Middle West and Central States. This practice enables 
swine owners to grow, fatten and market hogs as early as six to ten months 
of age, and is becoming more universal each year. Of course under such 
circumstances spaying is not an essential operation. However, in the South 
and Southwest the older methods of swine-raising still prevail to a limited 
degree, hence in this section the operation of spaying is still practised 
to a limited extent. 

Age — The operation is best performed at four months of age. However, 
it is permissible any time from sixty days old to maturity, or even old 
age. 

Season — Sows should not be spayed during fly time nor in extremely cold 
weather. It is best to operate in the fall, early winter and spring. 

Preparation — One of the most important essentials to success in spaying 
sows is to have the alimentary tract absolutely empty before undertaking 
to operate. This is best accomplished by withholding feed for from twenty- 
four to thirty hours previous to operating. During this time there is no 
special objection to allowing the animal free access to water. The danger 
of septic infection can be greatly minimized by providing clean quarters 
before and after operation. Another essential is not to allow the boar access 
to the sows previous to spaying. It is best not to operate during the estral 
period. Pregnancy is a contra-indication to successful spaying. 

Restraint — Proper restraint technic is as essential in spaying sows as in 
almost any other operation in animal surgery. This operation calls for the 
simple and easily applied, rather than the intricate methods often employed 
in other operations. The method of restraint used must of course depend 
upon whether the flank or the belly operation is to be performed. If the 
abdominal cavity is to be invaded from below (belly method) the most 
simple and satisfactory restraint consists in looping a strong cord (window 



174 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



sash cord) or a small rope above the hocks, by which the animal can be 
readily suspended to a post or wall in the hanging posture (Fig. 165.) 
If the flank incision is to be used, it is necessary for the animal to be 
confined in the recumbent posture at an angle of about thirty degrees on 
either the right or the left side, depending upon which flank is to be 
invaded. One of the best and most satisfactory methods the author has 
ever employed is as follows : Procure a piece of three-eighths inch soft 




Fig. 165 — Restraint for spaying the sow (belly method). 

rope about six feet long. Tie the ends together, forming a loop as shown 
in Fig. 166. Next secure a 2x11 inch plank about twelve feet long; place 
one end on the floor or ground and either spike the other end fast to a 
wall or suspend it by means of a rope from above. Make the rope loop 
fast to the upper end of the plank with a screw eye or a spike (A), or it 
may be fastened by boring a hole through the plank large enough to permit 
the rope to be drawn up through it where it is held secure by large knots 
in its ends. The contrivance should be so arranged that when the hog is 



SPAYING SOWS 



17.", 



fastened on the plank it will be about waist high to the operator as shown 
in the illustrations. The plank should be on a slant of about thirty degrees. 
The operator standing facing the board, with his right hand toward the 
lower end, passes his right hand (D) Fig. 166 through the loop (C) and 
instructs his assistant to grasp the right legs of the hog and bring the hog 
to him, placing it on the board. As the assistant approaches with the hog, 
pass your left hand under the right hand and rope, grasping the left hind 
leg (E), while your right hand grasps the right hind leg (Pig. 167). Now 




Fig. 166 — Restraint for spaying the sow (flank method), first step. A, Board 
with end elevated; B. rope suspending the board; C, rope loop snaring the hind 
feet; D, E, position of hands. 

guide the left leg to your right hand, and grasp it. The left hand now 
contains both hind feet, while the right hand grasps the loop from over 
the left wrist and carries it back, dropping it above the fetlocks. As you 
drop the rope back of the leg, instruct your assistant to pull the hog down- 
ward on the board, making the rope taut as shown in Pig. 168. With a 



176 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



little practice a sow may be secured by this method in less than five seconds. 

Instruments— 1. Curved scissors (Fig. 35) for clipping hair from the 1 
site of incision. 

2. Miles' hooked knife (Fig. 25). 

3. Swine and sheep emasculator (Fig. 80). 

4. Hagedorn's needle (half circle) No. 3 (Fig. 84). 

5. Richter's needle-holder (Fig. 34). 

6. Braided silk No. 12 or linen for sutures. 




Fig. 167 — Restraint for spaying operation on sow (flank method), second step. 
F, Board; G, rope suspending board; H, rope loop. 



Anatomy — It is well to remember that the fallopian tubes and horns of 
the uterus in sows are extremely long in comparison to their length in other 
animals, and that their course is decidedly tortuous in the pelvic and 
abdominal cavities. The importance of this can be more thoroughly com- 
prehended and appreciated by carefully observing these parts and their 
relation, which is plainly illustrated — in a diagrammatic way — in Fig. 169. 



SPAYING SOWS 



177 



The body of the uterus is unusually short when the length of its tubes) are 
taken into consideration. The cervix does not project into the vagina as in 
most other domestic and wild animals. On the other hand, the vagina and 
uterus of the sow unite without any circumscribed limit intervening be- 
tween them. The horns float loosely in the abdominal cavity and are found 
closely associated with the convolutions of the intestines. The broad liga- 
ments are mesenteric in conformation and character and are extremely thin 
and lax. The ovaries are decidedly lobulated and closely resemble grape 




*"ig. 168 — Restraint (of sow) for spaying operation (flank method), third step. 
N, Hind legs fixed; 0, flank incision. 

clusters suspended to the right and left of the vertebral column near the 
median line of the body. Fig. 170 illustrates the external as well as the 
internal generative organs of the sow. 

The abdominal wall in the flank region is quite thick and contains much 
fat between the skin and the external oblique abdominal muscle. More fat 
is encountered in mature sows than in younger hogs. The skin is dense 
and tough, while the external and internal oblique muscles and peritoneum 
are comparatively thin and delicate in structure. The above description 



178 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



applies equally well to the belly wall at the site of the incision for the spay- 
ing operation, except that the wall in the latter region is somewhat thinner. 
Methods of Operating — There are two standard methods, viz.: flank, and 




Fig. 169 — Internal genital organs of sow (diagrammatic). A, Rectum; B. 
vagina; C. bladder; D, uterus; E, left uterine horn; F, right fallopian tube and 
horn; G. ovary; H, intestines; I, kidney. 

the median line or belly method. Each has its advantages and disad- 
vantages, however, taking everything into consideration the author much 
prefers the flank method. 




Fig. 170 — External and internal generative organs of the sow. A. Ovaries; 
uterine horns and fallopian tubes: C, uterus; D, vagina; E, vulva. 



Operative Technic (Flank method) — The animal should be properly 
secured as illustrated in Figs. 166, 1H7 and 168, and placed on the right 



SPAYING sows 



179 



side. Remove the hair from the flank by clipping with scissors. The hands 
of the operator and the left flank of the animal should be washed with 
Lysol or Cresolis compound (U. S. P.), one tablespoonful to each quart of 




Fig. 171 — Excision of the ovaries of the sow, flank method, 
lopian tubes and horns; R, emasculator. 



P. Ovaries: Q. fal- 




Fig. 172 — Abdominal incision, closed with two interrupted sutures. 



180 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



water. With a hooked knife make an oblique incision an inch to an inch 
and a half long, beginning high in the Hank, one to two inches posterior 
to the last rib. This incision should run downward and backward at an 
angle of 45 degrees (see 0, Fig. 168). The incision should penetrate the 
skin, subcutaneous connective tissue, fat and external and internal oblique 
abdominal muscles. By this we mean all tissues clown to the peritoneum — 
the lining of the abdominal cavity. The peritoneum is then carefully 
punctured with the point of the knife, after which stretch or tear the 




Fig. 173 — Belly incision. 



incision sufficiently to admit the index finger of the left hand. With this 
finger inside of the abdomen the left (upper) ovary is located by passing 
the finger backward near the fundus of the bladder and upward toward 
the vertebral column. The ovary can be readily distinguished from the 
other intra-abdominal viscera by its peculiar feel, as it consists of hard 
lobules arranged in cluster form resembling small grapes. The left ovary 
and its accompanying fallopian tube are drawn through the incision. In 



SPAYING SOWS 



181 



j young sows the left tube is now withdrawn from the abdominal cavity and 
( followed back to the bifurcation where the right tube is encountered. The 
, right tube is withdrawn from the abdominal cavity and followed until the 
g right ovary is located, after which the ovary is drawn out of the abdomen 
through the incision and both ovaries (P) placed in the emasculator and 




Fig. 174 — Excision of the ovaries, belly method, sow. F, Ovaries; G, fallopian 
tubes and horns; H, emasculator. 



their attachments severed by closing the handles of the instrument. The 
tubes (Q) are now washed and replaced in the abdominal cavity (Fig. 171), 
and the incision closed by two interrupted sutures. These sutures should be 
made with a No. 3 half-circle Hagedorn needle and No. 12 braided silk. 
The sutures should extend through all layers of the abdominal wall, includ- 
ing the skin and peritoneum, or in other words, should be what are known 



182 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



as through-and-through sutures. (Fig. 172.) Sponge off the wound with 
antiseptic solution and release the animal. 

In sows which have given birth to one or more litters of pigs, the 
fallopian tubes are oftentimes so large that the left one must be replaced 
in the abdomen before the right one can be withdrawn. In such evenly of 




Fig. 175 — Wound closed (belly method), 



course, only one ovary can be removed at a time. However, both ovaries 
can always be removed through the same flank incision. 

Operative Technic (Median line or belly method) — Sterilize the instru- 
ments and wash the hands the same as for the flank operation. With the 
animal properly secured in the hanging posture (Fig. 173) the hair is 
removed from the site of the incision and the parts cleansed. With the 



SPAYING SOWS 



18:3 



hooked knife begin the incision two to three inches below the brim of the 
pubis and one-half inch either to the right or left of the median line. This 
incision should be extended downward about one and one-half to two inches, 




jo i8 176— Cystic ovaries that weighed 4 pounds, removed from a sow weighing 
170 pounds. A, Uterus; B-B, horns; C-C, ovaries. 

and should include all layers of the abdominal wall, down to the peri- 
toneum. 

The peritoneum is now punctured with the point of the hooked knife, 
after which the incision is enlarged sufficiently to admit the index finger 



184 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

of the left hand. With this finger the ovaries and tubes are readily located 
near the median line of the body, and are drawn through the incision 
(Fig. 174) and removed with the emasculator as in the flank method. 
The tubes and horns are sponged with antiseptic solution, after which 
they are replaced in the abdominal cavity and the wound closed by two 
or three interrupted through-and-through sutures (J, Fig. 175), using the 
same needle and the same size silk as in the flank method of operating. The 
animal is then released. 



CHAPTER IV. 



EWE SPAYING 



Objects and Indications — Sheep spaying is rarely ever practiced in this 
country because of the fact that the ewe is more valuable as a breeding 
animal than for mutton purposes. Spayed ewes mature earlier, grow larger 
and take on fat faster than unspaj^ed ewes. On this account they are some- 
times spayed for fat stock show and exhibition purposes. 

Age — Two and one-half to three months is the age of choice. 

Season — Late winter and early spring. 

Preparation — Empty alimentary tract by withholding feed for twenty- 
four to thirty hours previous to operating. 

Position — Hanging. 

Restraint — The ewe is exceedingly docile and submits readily to opera- 





Fig. 177 — External and internal genital organs of the ewe. G. vulva; H, vagina; 
I. uterus; J-J, horns; K-K, ovaries; L-L. broad ligament. 

tion. With a small rope or a large cord looped above each hock the anuria! 
is suspended from a hook or beam. The field of operation should be on a 
level with the breast of the operator. 

Instruments — 1. Curved scissors (Fig. 35) for clipping wool from the 
site of incision. 2. Miles' hooked knife (Fig. 25). 3. Swine and sheep 
emasculator (Fig. 80). 4. Hagedorn's needle, half circle, No. 3 (Fig. 84). 
5. Richter's needle-holder (Fig. 34). 6. Braided silk No. 12 for suturing. 

Anatomy — The conformation and anatomical relation of the internal 
generative organs of the ewe are almost identical with those of the cow 
except on a much smaller scale. The abdominal wall at the site of incision 
is very thin and exceedingly delicate. 



186 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



Warning — On account of the tliin and delicate structure of the abdominal 
wall, exceeding care must be exercised in suturing the incision. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Hands of Operator — Same 
as for calf spaying. 




Fig. 178 — Abdominal incision. Fig. 179 — Removing ovary. 

M, Incision; N, ovary; O, emasculator. 



EWE SPAYING 



187 



Operative Technic — With the ewe in the hanging position, the wool is 
clipped from the field of operation, after which the parts are cleansed with 
soap and water and disinfected by painting with tincture of iodin. 1. Begin 
the incision in the median line three inches below the brim of the pubis, 




Fig. 180 — Wound sutured. 



188 ANIMAL CASTRATION 

and extend it downward for a distance of two and one-half or three inches. 
(Fig. 178.) This incision should penetrate all layers of the abdominal 
wall. 2. With the index and second finger inside the abdomen the horns 
and ovaries are readily located, after which each ovary is withdrawn and 
severed from its attachments. (Fig. 179.) 3. The abdominal incision is 
now closed by three interrupted through-and-through sutures, care being 
taken to see that each layer of the abdominal wall is in direct apposition. 
After-Care — The spayed animals should be turned to pasture if weather 
conditions are favorable, otherwise sanitary well bedded quarters are to 
be provided. If the sutures do not slougji out they should be removed 
about the eighth day. 



CHAPTER V. 



BITCH SPAYING 



Objects and Indications — Bitches are spayed to prevent estnmi (heat) 
and breeding. A bitch in heat is an ideal illustration of a private as well 
as a public nuisance. She is undesirable at home and unwelcome abroad. 
To obviate this, spaying is the only recourse. The spayed bitch is a more 
desirable animal in many respects than the unspayed one. She remains 




Fig. 180 — Wound retractor actual size. 

contented at home. She is more kind, docile and reliable than the entire 
bitch. 

Age — To secure the best results it is advisable to spay. the bitch puppy 
before she comes in estrum for the first time. The preferable age is three 
to six months, though many operate before the puppies are weaned. Aged 




Fig. 181 — Surgeon's full curved needle No. 5. actual size. 



bitches that have given birth to several litters of puppies sometimes develop 
a tendency to lay on excessive fat when spayed ; this is particularly true of 
collies. The reason for this is not clear. It may be due to contentment with 
its lot, which occasions less exercise than running over half a township, and 
the further fact that being at home all the time, meals are more regular 
and more numerous for the spayed animal than for the prowling nuisance. 
Season — Anytime when the animal is not in heat. 



11)0 



AN1 M AL CASTRAT 1( )N 



Preparation — An empty alimentary tract is an important aid to spaying. 
Food should be withheld for twelve hours previous to the time of operating, 
and a dose of castor oil should be administered. An enema and an emetic 
(morphin or H-M-C given as a preliminary part of the anesthesia is amply 
sufficient) given one hour before the operation is good surgical practice 
and contributes not only to the safety of the operation, but adds to the 
comfort of the patient following the operation and hastens convalescence. 




Fig. 182 — Uterine sound. 

Methods of Operating — There are two methods of operating, viz. : the 
Hank method and the belly method. Ninety per cent of the surgeons prefer 
and advocate the belly method, while others use the flank method. The 
author much prefers the belly method. 

Anesthesia — Under no circumstances should this operation be performed 
except under anesthesia. The dog takes general anesthetics, chloroform, 
A. C. E., ether, A. C. E. and aromatic spirits of ammonia, easily and safely 
and skilled assistance is not necessary for their administration; it being 




Fig. 183 — External and internal genital organs of bitch. A, Vulva; B, vagina; 
C, uterus; D, D. horns; E. E. ovaries (diagrammatic). 



practicable for the surgeon to both anesthetize the patient and perform the 
operation. If chloroform be used, its administration should be preceded by 
a hypodermic injection of H-M-C, morphin or atropin. Either the H-M-C, 
or the morphin dulls the sense of pain, and under some circumstances it 
may be excusable to operate without other means for lessening the pain, 



BITCH SPAYING 



191 



but certainly it is unthinkable not to use at least this. With either the 
H-M-C or morphin, less chloroform is required than where chloroform alone 
is used, and the anesthesia is sufficiently lasting to permit the operator to 
perform the whole operation, once deep anesthesia is induced, without 
further administration of chloroform. This is a great advantage where the 
services of a skilled assistant are not available. Where skilled assistance 
is available, A. C. E., ether, or A. C. E. and aromatic spirits of ammonia 
have the advantage that the patient recovers from the anesthesia far more 
quickly. H-M-C, morphin, and atropin all three reduce the danger attend- 
ant upon the administration of chloroform to the dog to almost nil, and the 
employment of at least one of them should never be neglected. When 
skilled assistance is available and one of the other general anesthetics 
mentioned, i. e., one containing ether, is used, the hypodermic is not neces- 
sary to reduce the danger incident to the general anesthesia nor is any of 
I hem so effective when the other anesthetics are used. 

Instruments — 1. Miles' hooked knife (Fig. 25.) 2. Canine and feline 
emasculator (Figs. 102 and 108). 3. Wound retractor (Fig. 180). While 
Hie wound retractor is not essential for the experienced operator, neverthe- 




Fig. 184 — A, Bread ligament: B. rent in ligament; C, ovary; D, fallopian tube; 
B, E, ligatures; F, horn; G, artery. 



192 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



less for the beginner its use greatly facilitates locating the horns of the 
nterns by enabling him to view them inside the abdomen. If the horns are 
seen they can be grasped readily with hemostatic forceps and withdrawn 
without introducing the finger into the cavity. 4. Surgeon's needle (Fig. 




Fig. 185 — View of the interior of the abdominal cavity of the bitch, showing the 

internal genital organs and their relation to each other. A. Urinary 

bladder; B, uterus; C. C, horns; D. bifurcation of horns; 

E, E, ovaries; F, intestines. 



181), carrying 20 inches No. 10 braided silk for sutures. 5. Uterine sound 
(Fig. 182). 6. Hemostatic forceps. 7. Richter's needle-holder (Fig. 34). 
Anatomy — There is little doubt that, on account of its anatomical con- 
formation — except for the cat, the bitch is the most tedious and difficult of 
all domestic animals to spay. To make satisfactory progress in bitch spay- 



BITCH SPAYING 



193 



ing the operator must be familiar with the anatomy of the organs and the 
parts involved. 

Vulva — The vulva has thick labia which form a pointed inferior com- 
missure. 

Vagina — The vagina is tubular in form and relatively long. Its walls 




Fig. 186— A practical mode of restraint for spaying. The subject shown is under 

complete anesthesia. 

are thick, consisting principally of circular muscular fibers. It is closely 
related to the rectum above and the bladder below. 

Uterus — The body of the uterus is exceedingly short, rarely exceeding 
one inch in length. Its two cornua (horns) are long, and their diameters 
small. They vary in length from two to eight inches, according to the 
size of the bitch. They lie loosely inside the abdominal cavity, closely asso- 



194 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



dated with the intestinal convolutions. Their bifurcation is V-shaped, and 
takes place immediately above the fundus of the bladder. The broad liga- 
ments are long (Fig. 184). The fallopian tubes are small in diameter and 
one to two and one-half inches long, depending upon the size and the breed 
of the bitch. 

Ovaries — The ovaries are small and bean-shaped. Their surface is smooth. 




Fig. 187 — "Farmer" Miles' method of restraint for spaying operation (bitch). 



They are enclosed in a peritoneal capsule (sac) and are attached imme- 
diately posterior to the kidneys. (Fig. 185). 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Hands of Operator — All in- 
struments, sutures, ligatures, etc., used in connection with the operation 
should be sterilized by boiling for fifteen or twenty minutes, and then 
immersed in Lysol or cresolis compound (U. S. P.), one tablespoonful to 
the quart of water. The hands should be thoroughly cleansed with tincture 
of green soap and warm water, using a scrub brush, and rinsed in the anti- 
septic solution previously mentioned. 



BITCH SPAYING 



105 



Preparatimi of Operative Field— Shave the hair from the site of incision. 
Wash with tincture of green soap and warm water, using a scrub brush. 
Mop with ether and paint with tincture of iodin. 




Fig. 188— Showing median line incision, immediately posterior to the umbilicus. 

Restraint and Position (Belly Method )— Always apply the muzzle to 
begin with, and be sure to remove it before anesthesia is complete and if 
nausea should occur during the administration of the anesthetic, remove 
the tape at the first evidence of retching. If a suitable operating table 1 is 



196 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 




Fig. 18£ — Completing the process of limited torsion for amputation cf tli3 ovary. 

available it should be utilized. "What is meant by a suitable table is one the 
top of which may be elevated to the perpendicular or ahnost perpendicular 
position. Tables made with stationary tops have no place in this operation. 
If a table is not available, an inexpensive as well as a safe and satisfactory 
method is to use a plank that may be stood against a building at a steep 
slant, or after anesthesia is complete, the patient may be suspended by the 
hind legs against the side of a building or a post. 




Fig. 190 — Showing the skin and fascia joined with a continuous suture, whi h 
is fixed by tying together the single end of the thread on one side 
with the double end on the other. 



BITCH SPAYING 



197 



The method of restraint for spaying' bitches designed, taught and prac- 
ticed by "Farmer" Miles (Fig. 187) is as follows: A tape muzzle ,(F) is 
applied. With a strong cord looped above the hocks (B-B) and thrown over 
a spike or hook (A) in a post or wall (C) the animal is suspended sufficient- 
ly high for the site of operation to be on a level with the operator's breast. 
With another strong cord (D) looped above the elbows (E-E), the opera- 
tor's leg (G) is placed through its loop for the purpose of making suf- 
ficient downward traction to limit the movement of the animal. In this 
position the intestines gravitate downward against the diaphragm, facili- 
tating the location and removal of the ovaries. 

Operative Teehnic — The incision should be made as exactly in the median 
line as possible and just posterior to the umbilicus. It should be one inch 




Fig. 1P1 — Showing suture for coaptation of the peritoneum and abdominal muscles. 



to one and one-half inches long and penetrate all layers of the abdominal 
wall, care being taken not to injure the bladder with the point of the 
knife. (Fig. 188). If preferred there is no objection to introducing the 
wound retractors, in which event if the animal is empty and the light 
bright — either the horns or the uterus may be seen plainly. With either 
tissue or hemostatic forceps the horn is picked up and drawn out of the 
abdominal incision and grasped between the index and second finger of 
the left hand. With a limited amount of traction on the horn and by 
pushing in on the belly to bring it as close as possible to the attachment 
of the ovary, the latter is readily brought through the incision and outside 
the abdomen, when together with all its capsule and a portion of the broad 
ligament it is removed with the emasculator. Unless the bitch is aged or 



198 



AX I. MAI, CASTRATION 



near the period of estrnm, or the ovary inflamed no means of hemostasis 
is required other than that furnished by the emasculator. If any of the 
three conditions enumerated above obtain, the larger blood-vessels should 
be ligated with catgut. Bitches, particularly of the small delicate breeds, 
do not stand the loss of blood at all well, and spaying them should not 




192 — Abdomin- 
al incision. 



Pig. 193 — Removing Ovar- 
ies with emasculator. I, 
Bifurcation; J, J. horns: 
K, ovaries; L, emascu- 
lator. 



Fig. 194 — I nc i s i o/n 
closed with 3 inter- 
rupted sutures. 



Occasion the loss of more than a few drops of blood ; in no case to exceed 
one dram. 

With the free end of the tube and ovary in one hand, the horn is fol- 
lowed up to its bifurcation, when the opposite horn is grasped and the 
opposite ovary located and removed from the abdomen in like manner. The 
stump of the tubes and horns are replaced in the abdominal cavity. It is 



BITCH SPAYING 



199 



essential that all ovarian tissue and all the capsiile be removed. If even a 
minute portion of the ovary or of the capsule be left, ovarian tissue will 
be regenerated in many cases and the animal will come in heat again and 
be as great a nuisance as before, a constant reproach to the operator, and 
a serious reflection upon his skill, since no excuse can be made for such 
bnnglesome work. Dry the wound by sponging and close either with two 
or three interrupted through-and-through sutures, or suture the peritoneum 
with a continuous suture and the abdominal walls with another suture of 
the same kind. Keep the patient in a warm place until it has completely 
recovered from all effects of the anesthetic. Chilling, which occurs very 
readily, and particularly so if morphin has been given, is dangerous fol- 
lowing anesthesia. If the pulse is very weak, use hotwater bottles and 
blanket warmly. Use strychnine (1-300 to 1-130 of a grain) when indicated. 




Fig. 195 — Bitch spaying (flank method). A. Abdominal incision; B, knife; 0, left 
leg; D. three legs tied together; E. tape muzzle. 



If inexperienced, the operator may find the introduction of a uterine 
sound or probe (Fig. 182) into the vagina an assistance in finding the 
uterus and horns. 

After-Care — All violent or strenuous exercise for a period of a week to 
ten days after the operation should be avoided. Laxative feeds are an 
advantage and sometimes mild cathartics are needed. Remove the sutures 
in from three to five days, depending upon the condition of the wound. 

Sequelae — The chief sequelae are shock, internal hemorrhage, peritonitis, 
hernia, anorexia, eventration, recurrent estrum and adhesions. 

1. Shock — The preoperative administration of atropin or morphin 
lessens the liability of shock. Where it is not used and the general anesthetic 
is pushed too fast and too far, respiration may be suddenly arrested, and 



200 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 




Fig. 196 — Bitch spaying, (flank method). 

the operator should always watch for this when operating without a skilled 

assistant to administer the anesthetic. Shock is mostly due to faulty technic. 

2. Internal Hemorrhage — Bitches in the early stage of estrum or but 

recently passed through it will occasionally be operated on in spite of one's 



^Hfe^g^L 




p 


^mTV" 






- 





Fig. 197 — Wound closed by interrupted sutures. 



BITCH SPAYING 



201 



attempt to avoid operation at this time, and in such cases, unless the large 
arteries supplying the ovaries are ligated, serious and even fatal hemorrhage 
is prone to result either at the time of the operation or within an( hour 
thereafter. When hemorrhage is discovered during the operation, the bleed- 
ing vessels should, of course, be ligated. When it is not discovered until 
after the abdominal wound is sutured, an attempt to arrest it should be 
made by the administration of full physiologic doses of atropin, ad- 
ministered hypodermically. If this, with the lowering of the blood pressure, 
does not arrest the hemorrhage, the wound must be reopened, enlarged if 
necessary and the bleeding vessels taken up and ligated. Following this, 




Fig. 198 — Protection of wound after spaying. 



artificial heat should be supplied by means of hot-water bottles. A copious 
interabdominal injection of normal saline solution should be given where 
the loss of blood approaches the danger point. 

3. Peritonitis — Peritonitis may, of course, result from infection, a 
sequel to unclean work, or from rough handling of the abdominal viscera. 
The epithelial layer of the peritoneum of all puppies and of adults of the 
toy breeds is so delicate that abrasions may be caused by the fingers, to 
say nothing of the finger nails. Anything but the gentlest of manipulation 
and very little of that is not only unnecessary in spaying a bitch, but very 
harmful. Peritonitis due to infection is usually fatal. That due to trauma- 



202 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



tism usually ends in recovery, but not without more or less extensive 
adhesions. A good technic will avoid both kinds. 

4. Hernia — Hernia is of two kinds, omental and intestinal. The latter 
occurs only when the sutures are too wide apart and gaping- wounds left. 
Omental hernia may occur from an insufficient number of sutures or from 
the sutures being improperly placed. If the through-and-through suture 
is used, care must be taken in every case to see that all layers of the skin, 
muscles and peritoneum are included in each suture. If the peritoneum 
and abdominal walls were sutured separately, both, and particularly the 
peritoneum, must be so sutured as to leave no gaps. 




Fig. 199 — Protection of wound after spaying. 



5. Anorexia — This may result from the misuse of anesthetics, from a 
failure to empty the intestinal canal before operating, from constipation 
following the operation, and of course, from peritonitis. Its treatment 
consists in removing the cause, or better still, in avoiding it. 

6, Eventration — The tendency of some animals to self mutilation and 
eventration from the fourth to the eighth day following spaying has never 
been satisfactorily explained. Rough manipulation of the abdominal viscera 
is believed to be an important cause. Shutting the animal up away from 
others with which it has been accustomed to associate, or away from its 
owner and the resulting homesickness and nervousness is probably a con- 
tributing factor. It may be prevented by putting a stiff wide collar on the 



BITCH SPAYING 203 

animal, so wide and so stiff that she cannot turn her head sufficiently to get 
her teeth to the abdomen. It is uncommon and so far as the writer knows, 
has not occurred with bitches returned to their owners immediately after 
spaying, but does sometimes occur to those confined in a veterinary hospital 
for a week following the operation. 

7. Recurrent E strum — This can occur only when the animal is not 
properly spayed. If any part of an ovary or its capsule is left attached! to 
the broad ligament, estrum is prone to recur after a time. The only treat- 
ment is to operate again, and as this operation is far more difficult than 
spaying a normal bitch, it should be left to an experienced operator, a 
thing that it goes without saying, the one who left the ovarian tissue was 
not. 

8. Adhesions — Adhesions, unless extensive, seem unimportant. Perhaps 
they cause pain as they do in man, but it is not so apt to be discovered. 
Extensive adhesions such as are quite apt to follow prolonged, bunglesome 
searching for the ovaries at the time of operation, or infection, render the 
bitch practically useless. 

There is one other sequel of spaying about which little has been said, but 
it occurs to annoy the operator sometimes. Bitches that are operated on 
during the period of estrum or when pregnant sometimes exhibit great 
listlessness about three weeks following the operation, which grows pro- 
gressively worse until the animal scarcely notices anyone and lies about 
most of the time. When it is induced to move, it walks with a staggering 
gait, and may even be partially paralyzed in the hind legs. Recovery is 
ordinarily spontaneous in five or six weeks. No treatment so far used has 
appeared to be of any benefit. 



CHAPTER VI. 

CAT SPAYING 

Objects and Indications — Cats are submitted to spaying operation for the 
purpose of preventing- "heat" and pregnancy, principally the latter. After 
spaying they remain at home more closely and are more desirable pets. 

Age — The best results are attained if the cat is spayed before she comes 
in "heat" the first time. On account of the smallness of the cat — especially 




Fig. 200 — View of interior of abdominal cavity of the cat. A. Bifurcation; 
B, rectum; C, bladder; D-D, uterine horns; E-E, ovaries; F, intestines. 



CAT SPAYING 



205 




Fig. 201 — External and internal genitals of the cat. 

if an attempt is made at an early age — the operation is extremely tedious. 
It is best to operate at 6 to 8 months old. 

Season — Winter, spring- and fall. 

Preparation — Withhold food for twenty-four hours previous to operating 
in order that the alimentary tract may be empty. 

Methods — Flank method and belly method. 

Anesthesia — General anesthesia should be employed on account of a 
natural as well as an acquired tendency to bite and scratch ferociously 
whenever submitted to operation of almost any character. Control without 
anesthesia is somewhat hazardous. 

Instruments — 1. Miles' hooked knife (Fig. 25). 2. Canine and feline 
eirasculator (Figs. 102, 103). 3. Wound retractor (Fig. 180). 1. Sur- 




Fig. 202 — Flank incision for spaying the cat. 



20G 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 




Fig. 203 — Cat tied and in proper position for flank spaying. A, Incision; B, legs 

geon's full curved needle No. 5 (Fig. 181), carrying 18 inches sterilized 
braided silk No. 10. 5. Long, slender probe. 6. Hemostatic forceps. 

Anatomy — The cat is the most difficult and tedious of all domestic animals 
to spay. The anatomical conformation and smaUness of the parts and 
organs largely account for its extreme tediousness. As for the author's part 
he would greatly prefer spaying ten heifers to one cat. In fact, he would 
prefer spaying twice ten heifers to spaying one kitten. The internal gener- 




Fig. 204— Cat spaying (flank method). C, Emasculator; D, ovary; E, abdominal 

incision. 



CAT SPAYING 



207 




Fig. 205 — Wound closed with two interrupted sutures. F, Sutures. 



ative organs of the eat are similar in all respects to those of the bitch 
exeept, of course, that they are much smaller. Their conformation and 
anatomical relation are the same in both animals. (Fig's. 200 and 201.) 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Hands of Operator — Same as 
for bitch spaying. See page 1!>4-. 

Preparation of Operative Field — Same as for bitch spaying. 

Operative Technic — Same as for bitch spaying. 

After-eare and Treatment — Same as for bitch spaying. 

Sequelae — Same as for bitch spaying. 



CHAPTER VII. 



POULARDIZING 



The operation of poulardizing simply means unsexing the female fowl; 
in other words, spaying the pullet. 

Objects and Indications — The primary object in making poulards of 
pullets is to facilitate their growth to quick maturity without the handicap 
of egg production. It is a positively known fact that the poulards mature 
and develop more rapidly than entire pullets or hens. The texture, flavor 
and nutritive properties of their meat is also greatly improved. Poulard 
meat bears the same relation to that of the hen as the meat of a spayed 
heifer to that of the old cow. The operation has been practiced on a large 
scale for many years in France and Germany, and to a limited extent in 
America. The results would justify its more universal adoption. The 
poulard never cackles, and like the capon becomes an outcast. 




Fig. 206 — Restraint for poulardizing. A-A, Weights at end of cords; B, leg of 
fowl in loop; C, wings in loop; D, incision 



P0ULARD1ZING 



200 



Age — Two to three months. 

Season — Late spring, summer and early fall. 

Preparation — Withhold all food for at least thirty hours before operating. 
It is impossible to do a satisfactory operation on a pullet with a full ali- 
mentary tract. A full abdominal cavity prevents locating and examining 
the egg cluster, to say nothing of its interference with the operation itself. 

Restraint — On a box or barrel acting as an operating table the pullet is 
confined for operation in the same manner as for caponizing. Two pieces 
of strong cord are procured, upon each end a loop is made. To one end a 
weight is attached (Fig. 206), after which the free end of one cord is 
looped above the feet and the other cord is looped around the wings. The 




Fig. 207— Internal genital organs of hen. E, Egg cluster; F, egg passage. 



pullet is now stretched full length — left side uppermost — on the table. This 
is a quick and inexpensive method of restraint and at the same time a satis- 
factory one. 

Instruments — 1. Caponizing knife (Fig. 116). 2. Spreaders (Figs. 117, 
118, 119). 3. Hemostatic or tissue forceps (small size). 4. Curved scissors 
(Fig. 35). 

Breeds — It is not profitable to attempt to make poulards from the small 
breeds of chickens. Indian Games, Brahmas, Cochins, Langshans, Plymouth 
Rocks, Orpingtons, Wyandottes, etc., all make good poulards. 

Anatomy — Some knowledge of the anatomy of the parts involved and 
their relation is necessary before progress can be made with this operation. 
Fig. 207 shows the egg cluster (E) which corresponds to the ovary in 
animals, and the egg passage (F) which corresponds to the uterus in 



210 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



animals. This illustration was purposely made from a grown hen. One 
object being to enable the amateur operator to know the comparative dif- 
ference between the internal genitals of a hen and those of a pullet of 
proper age and size for operation. Fig. 208 shows the organs after being 
removed from the abdominal cavity of the hen. They consist of (A) egg 




Fig. 208— Internal genitals of hen. A. Egg cluster; B-B, egg passage; C, cloaca; 
D, frimbriated extremity of fallopian tube. 

cluster, (B-B) egg passage, (C) cloaca, (D) fimbriated extremity of the fal- 
lopian tubes. The egg cluster lies in close proximity to the vertebral column, 
slightly posterior to the lungs. From it the fallopian tube and egg passage 
proceed backward — in close relation to the vertebral column, aorta and 
vena cava — to its outlet — cloaca. In the pullet the egg cluster and egg 
passage are small. (Fig. 209.) 



POULARDIZING 



211 




Pig. 209 — Intestines removed to show position of egg cluster and egg passage. 
G, Egg cluster; H. egg passage. 




Fig. 210 — Making a poulard. E, Abdominal incision; G, spreaders; F, thumb 

forceps. 



212 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



In a pullet of proper age for operation the egg passage is no larger than 
an average size broom straw. The egg cluster in such a pullet is small and 
flat, and shows no evidence of egg formation. Beginners are urgently 
advised to carefully examine these parts in the carcass of the mature hen, 
also in a three-months-old pullet before undertaking the operation. 

Warning — In removing a section from the egg passage caution should be 
exercised not to sever either the aorta or vena cava. Both are large and 
important blood-vessels, and should either of them be severed, death from 
internal hemorrhage is almost instantaneous. It is important to have extra 




Fig. 211 — Removing a section from the egg passage. I-J, Forceps; K, egg 
passage; L, section of egg passage between forceps to be removed; M, egg 
cluster. . , ( 



good light in order that the abdominal cavity be illuminated sufficiently to 
locate the parts. Bright sunshine is the ideal light for this operation. Out- 
of-doors is the place, and from 10 a. m. to 2 p. m. is the best time. 

Operative Technic — With the left side uppermost the feathers are plucked 
from the site of incision — last intercostal space. The skin is chilled by 
allowing a glass of cold water to slowly trickle over it. This chilling process 
has a tendency to reduce capillary hemorrhage from the skin. With the 
knife begin high up between the last two ribs and make an incision 1 to 1% 
inches long, severing the skin and both layers of the intercostal muscles 
down to the transparent peritoneum. Since the intercostal artery follows 



POULARDIZING 213 

closely the posterior border of the rib this incision should be made as close 
to the anterior border of the last rib as possible. The spreaders are now 
inserted. This opens the wound, and through the transparent membrane 
(peritoneum) covering the intestines the egg cluster is examined. If there 
is evidence of advanced egg formation it is not profitable to make a poulard. 
It is more profitable to release the hen for egg production, in which event 
the abdominal cavity is not opened. The spreaders are simply removed 
and the fowl released. On the other hand, if, upon examination of the egg 
cluster — through the transparent peritoneum — there is no evidence of egg 
formation the peritoneum is nicked sufficiently to open the abdominal 
cavity. Beginning close to the egg cluster a one-inch section of the egg 
passage is removed with forceps and scissors. This stops egg formation. 
By reference to Fig. 211 an idea may be had of the exact location of the 
egg passage and the part of it to be removed in operating. The spreader 
is now removed. This allows the ribs to come together, automatically clos- 
ing the incision. 

After-Care and Treatment — Upon being released from the operating table 
poulards are usually put in a closed yard where they can find shelter, food 
and water, and can be kept quiet. No roosts are provided, as the less 
flying and jumping they do the sooner the wound heals. The poulards seem 
to be very little inconvenienced by the operation, and water and soft feed 
mixed with sweet skim milk may be given immediately. Some feeders give 
this in unlimited quantity, while others feed more sparingly for a time. 

For a week or ten days the newly made poulards should be carefully 
observed to see whether they become "wind-puffed." This is a condition 
caused by air gathering under and puffiing out the skin near the wound. 
When observed it can be readily relieved by pricking the skin with a 
needle or knife and pressing out the air. 



CHAPTER VI J I. 



DEODDKlZIXti THE SKUNK 



While removing the scent from a skunk has not the remotest relation — 
either directly or indirectly to animal castration; nevertheless, on account 
of its novelty and the dearth of reliable literature on the subject the author 
considers it of sufficient interest and importance for brief mention in the 
concluding pages of this volume. 

Objects and Indications — It should be remembered that the skunk has 
1:0 effective means of protection or defense aside from the scent fluid which 
it possesses and uses without stint when necessary. Ordinarily, the fluid 
discharged by the skunk is amply sufficient to ward off almost any kind of 
attack and protect the animal from danger. The scent fluid is only dis- 
charged when the animal is alarmed or frightened, and contrary to the 
prevailing popular opinion, is not urine, and has no connection with the 
urinary apparatus. Skunks are deodorized for the purpose of converting 




Fig. LMj! — Diagrammatic illustration shewing scent secreting and expelling ap- 
paratus. A, Anus; B-B, jet or nipple-like opening of anal ducts; C-C, ducts; D-D, 
anal glands; E-E. sacs or reservoirs. 

them into desirable household pets. Such animals never scratch and rarely 
ever bite, and are absolutely harmless. 

Age — They should be operated upon at an early age (30 to 60 days old), 
as the mortality rate following operation in the mature skunk is very high. 

Season — Whenever you can succeed in catching them. This is one animal 
at least you must catch before you can operate upon it. 

Preparation — If possible the young animals (kittens) should be kept and 
fondled for several days before they are submitted to operation, so they 
may become accustomed to being handled. By thus preparing them they 
may be handled through the preparatory stages of the operation without 
voiding the scent fluid. 

Restraint — The operation must be done under a glass to protect operator 
and assistants. A large pane of window glass should be supported at each 
end and raised about ten inches from the floor. Two assistants are necessary. 



DEODORIZING THE SKUNK 



2i; 



Rubber gloves should be worn by the operator and both assistants. The 
skunk is readily placed under general anesthesia by the use of ether when 
such is desired. The animal is carefully placed under the glass, after which 
one assistant should grasp the head and fore feet and the other assistant 
the hind feet, and hold the posterior parts in such a position as to cause 
the discharged scent fluid to be deposited against the under side of the 
glass. Most of the Moid will be discharged at this time quite promptly, and 




Fig. 21H — Posterior aspect of the skunk. A. Anus; B-B, anal glands. 



very little will be kept in reserve. In fact, the operation could be pro- 
ceeded with to completion without the glass. 

Instruments — 1. Scalpel! 2. Rat-tooth hemostatic forceps. .'>. Curved 
scissors (Fig. 35). 

Anatomy — The anus is a large irregular elliptical depression surrounded 
by loose flabby skin which bulges over the site of the anal (scent) glands. 
These glands are two in number located on each side (laterally) of the 
anus. There is about one-half inch space between the anus and the center 
of the anal glands. 

The scent-secreting apparatus is large, and consists of numerous small 
glands — closely associated — surrounding a sac or reservoir for storing up 
the fluid. They are covered by skin, subcutaneous connective tissue, and 



216 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 




Fig. 214 — Showing incisions over site of anal glands. F, Anus; E-E, incisions. 

two thin layers of muscular fiber, viz. : ischio-cavernosus and bulbo-caver- 
nosus muscles. The glandular organ is surrounded by a well defined 
envelope. Each gland is supplied with an excretory duct. These ducts pro- 
ject through the lateral walls of the rectum immediately anterior to the 
anus. Their openings are nipple or jet-like for governing the direction of 
the stream. When the skunk considers itself in danger its behavior is as 
follows : 1. It turns its posterior parts toward the object of attack. 2. Ele- 
vates its tail. 3. Inverts the anus exposing the nipple-like openings of the 
ducts. 4. By voluntary muscular contraction the sac or scent reservoir is 
compressed and the scent fluid expelled. This fluid may be thrown for a 
distance of twelve to fifteen feet, the direction of the stream being under 



DEODORIZING THE SKUNK 217 

thorough control of the skunk. Of course, the amount of fluid is quite 
limited, but it is usually sufficient. The character of the fluid is dirty brown 
and fetid, and is slightly phosphorescent at night. 

Sterilization of Instruments and Cleansing Operator's Hands — The in- 
struments should be sterilized by boiling fifteen to twenty minutes, and 
then immersing them in Lysol or Cresolis compound (U. S. P.), one table- 
spoonful to each quart of water. Wash the hands with tincture of green 
soap, using a scrub brush, and rinse them with the antiseptic solution. 

Anesthesia — The skunk yields readily to ether as a general anesthetic, 
and it is always advisable to administer such an anesthetic before operating. 

Preparation of Operative Field — Don't forget that the skunk is now sup- 
posed to be under the glass. Clip the hair from around the anus for a 
distance — in each direction — of at least one inch. Wash the parts with 
antiseptic solution and paint the skin over the site of the incisions with 
tincture of iodin. 

Warning — In making incisions and dissecting out anal glands, exercise 
extreme care in order to avoid injury to either rectal or anal walls, or to 
the genito-urinary passages. 

Operative Technic — Locate the glands — on each side of the anus by pal- 
patation. A perpendicular incision one inch long is made directly over the 
center of the most prominent part of each gland, about one-half inch from 
the anus. (Fig. 214.) These incisions should penetrate the skin and sub- 
cutaneous connective tissue only. With rat-tooth hemostatic forceps or small 
size vulsellum forceps the glandular organ is grasped, and with limited 
traction applied by the forceps the parts are isolated by careful dissection, 
after which the duct is severed close to the rectal wall and the operation 
is completed. The incision should be left open to heal by granulation. 

After-Care — About all that is necessary is to place the animal in warm 
sanitary quarters. The wounds will heal and complete recovery take place 
by the tenth day. 



CHAPTER IX. 
author's ideal casting harness. 



The casting harness illustrated is included in order that those who desire 
to do so may make, or have made, and nse, what, to the author's mind, is 
the most complete and satisfactory casting harness. Its design is based on 
twenty years' college teaching and held experience with dozens of casting 
appliances of most every type. 

This casting harness is not patented and every student and practitioner 
lias pel-mission to nse it in any way he desires. 




Fig. 21 



ideal casting harness applied. 



This harness is adjustable in all directions, thus permitting of use on 
animals of all sizes. The adjusting buckles appear on the opposite side and 
do not show in the illustration. On account of the great variation in size 
of horses and mules, no measurements for the harness are given. Select an 
average size horse and make your own measurements. To make correct 
measurements is an easy matter when you have an animal and the illustra- 
tion before vou. 



author's ideal casting harness 219 

Each of the two side ropes are one-half inch in diameter and thirty-three 
feet long. One end of each rope is equipped with a strong snap. Friction on 
the side ropes is reduced to a minimum by the four roller equipped "D's" 
on the hobble straps and breast collar. Both hobble straps are 18 inches long. 

In casting and tying, the ropes are pulled in the same direction and 
handled in the same manner as described in casting and by the Knowles 
method. Pages •">(), 51 and 52. 



INDEX 



Abdominal cavity of bitch 192 

Abdominal cavity of cat 204 

Abdominal incision in ewe spaying 186 

Abdominal organs of dog 126 

Adhesions following bitch spaying 203 

After-care of stallion castration 22 

Age for castration 13 

Anatomy of bitch 193 

Anatomy of cat 206 

Anatomy of cow 155 

Anatomy of dog 124 

Anatomy of fowl 138 

Anatomy of hen 209 

Anatomy of ram 118 

Anatomy of sow 176 

Anatomy, stallion 17 

Anesthesia for bitch spaying 190 

Anomalous ridgling 48, 63 

Anorexia 202 

Author's Ideal Casting Harness 218 

Azoturia 71 

Betz's emasculator 15 

Betz's triple crimp emasculator 15 

Bitch, genital organs of 190 

Bitch spaying 189 

Bitch spaying, flank method 199 

Boar, castration of 98 

Boar, restraint of 98 

Boar, ruptured - 108 

Breeds for poulardizing 209 

Broad ligament of bitch 191 

Bull cast and tied 89 

Bull, castration of 85 

Bull, Conkey hobbles on 88 

Bull, generative organs of 86 

Bull, testicle of 87 

Calf, restraint of 168 

Calf Spaying 169 

Canine and feline emasculator 123 

Caponizing 133 

Caponizing, instruments for 135, 136 

Caponizing, selection of breeds for 135 

Casting harness, White's ideal 218 

Castrating knife, Miles' 35 

Castrating knife, Robinson's 26 

Castrating knife, Williams' 13, 26 

Castration, age for 13 

Castration, complications in 43 

Castration, history of 11 

Castration, injuries resulting from 70 

Castration of boar 98 

Castration of bull 85 

Castration of bull in standing position.. 92 

Castration of cat 131 

Castration of dog 122 

Castration, sequelae of 68 

Castration of bull in recumbent posi- 
tion 88 



Castration of colt 32 

Castration of mule 39 

Castration of ram 116 

Castration of stallion, indications for.... 12 
Castration of stallion in standing posi- 
tion 24 

Cat, anatomy of 206 

Cat, castration of 131 

Cat, restraint of 131, 132 

Cat spaying 204 

Cat spaying, flank method 206 

Cat, testicle of 132 

Chute and stocks, spaving 153 

Colic 70 

Colt castration 32 

Colt castration, Miles' method of 33 

Colt castration, operative technic of.... 35 

Complications in castration 43 

Conkey hobbles 12 

Conkey hobbles applied to bull 88 

Cow, anatomy of 155 

Cow, genitals of 155 

C,ow, heifer and calf spaying, operative 

technic of 156 

Cow, restraint of 154 

Cow spaying 153 

Cryptorchid boar 104 

Cryptorchid bull, castration of 94 

Cryptorchid, castration of 46 

Cryptorchid dog 128 

Cryptorchid, intra-inguinal 62 

Curved scissors 46 

Cystic ovaries removed from sow 183 

Deodorizing the skunk 214 

Dog, anatomy of 124 

Dog, castration of 122 

Dog, genitals of 124 

Dog, restraint of 122 

Dunn's ecraseur 53 

Dunn's emasculator 16 

Ecraseur, Dunn's 53 

Edema of sheath 73 

Emasculator 13, 14 

Emasculator, Betz's 15 

Emasculator, Betz's triple crimp 15 

Emasculator, correct position of on 

spermatic cord 22 

Emasculator, curved head spaying 159 

Emasculator, Dunn's 16 

Emasculator, McKillip's canine and 

feline 123 

Emasculator, single crimp 14 

Emasculator, swine and sheep 101 

Eventration 202 

Ewe, genital organs of 185 

Ewe spaying 185 

Excision of ovaries of sow 181 

Exuberant granulations 79. 81 



INDEX 



>21 



Fowl, anatomy of 138 

Fowl, testicles of 137 

Funiculitis, chronic 77 

Geldings I 2 

Generative organs of bull - 86 

Generative organs of sow . ...178 

Generative organs of stallion 18 

Genitals of bitch 190 

Genitals of cat 205 

Genitals of cow 155 

Genitals of dog -124 

Genitals of ewe 185 

Genitals of hen 209 

Genitals of mare ...146 

Granulations, exuberant 79, 81 

Hagedorn's needle 104 

Hair clipper 159 

Hands, cleansing of 21 

Harness, Knowles' casting — 50 

Harness, White's ideal casting 218 

Heifer spaying 153, 160 

Hemorrhage 72 

Hemorrhage, nature's method of con- 
trolling lS 

Hemorrhage, post-operative ~ 72 

Hen, anatomy of 209 

Hen, genitals of 209 

Hermaphrodite horse 65, <i<> 

Hernia following bitch spaying 202 

Hernia, inguinal 43 

Hernia, operation for 44 

Hernia, scrotal 44 

Hippo lasso, for mare restraint 149 

History of castration 11 

Hobbles, Conkey 12 

Hobbles, Miles'" colt 32 

Hydrocele 80, 82 

Infection, septic 68 

Inguinal hernia 43 

Injuries resulting from castration 70 

Instruments for bitch spaying 191 

Instruments for caponizing 135, 136 

Instruments for cat spaying 205 

Instruments for cow, heifer and calf 

spaying 155 

Instruments for dog castration 123 

Instruments for mare spaying 144 

Instruments for ewe spaying 185 

Instruments for sow ■-paying 176 

Instruments for stallion castration 14 

Instruments, sterilization of 20 

Interrupted sutures 114 

Intestine, prolapse of 70 

Intra-abdominal ridgling 48 

Intra-inguinal cryptorchid 62 

Intra-inguinal ridgling 61 

Jamison's spaying knife 161 



Knowles' casting harness 50 

McKillip's canine and feline emascu- 

lator 123 

Mare, genitals of 146 

Mare, restraint, by hippo lasso 149 

Mare spaying 143 

Mare spaying, instruments for 144 

Mare spaying, operative technic of 151 

Mare spaying, restraint for 143 

Miles' castrating knife 35 

Miles' colt hobbles 32 

Miles' palm needle 162 

Miles' ridgling spreaders 52 

Mooy's needle : -162 

Mule castration 39 

Mule testicle 42 

Nature's method of controlling hemor- 
rhage 1 9 < 20 

Needle, Miles' and Mooys' 162 

Needle, surgeon's 53, 189 

Needle-holder, Richter's 45 

Omentum, prolapse of 69 

Operative technic of skunk deodoriz- 
ing 217 

Operative technic for boar castration .103 
Operative technic for castration in 

standing position 27 

Operative technic for cow, heifer and 

calf spaying 156 

Operative technic for mare spaying 151 

Operative technic for poulardizing 212 

Operative technic for ram castration... .119 
Operative technic for intra-abdominal 

ridgling operation 56 

Operative technic for mule castration.. 40 
Operative technic for stallion castra- 
tion 21 

Operator's hands, cleansing of 21 

Orchectomy H 

Orchitis 66 

Ovary removed from ewe 186 

Paraphimosis 74, 75 

Paseley's spaying speculum 148 

Perforator, peritoneum 53 

Peritoneum perforator 53 

Peritonitis 70 

Peritonitis following bitch spaying 201 

Post-operative hemorrhage 72 

Poulardizing 208, 21 1 

Poulardizing, breeds for 209 

Poulardizing, operative technic for 212 

Preparation of stallion for castration.. 26 

Prolapse of intestine 70 

Prolapse of omentum 69 

Purse-string suture 113 

Ram, anatomy of H8 

Ram, castration of H6 



222 



INDEX 



Ram, restraint of 116, 117 

Ram, testicle of 118 

Recumbent position for hull castra- 
tion 88 

Recurrent estrum 203 

Restraint for bitch spaying 193, 195 

Restraint for caponizing 133 

Restraint for mare spaying 143 

Restraint for poulardizing 208 

Restraint of hoar 98 

Restraint of calf 168 

Restraint of cat 131, 132 

Restraint of cow lot 

Restraint of clog 122 

Restraint of ram 116, 117 

Restraint for sow 173 

Restraint for spaying sow 

..' 174, 175, 176, 177 

Restraint, stallion 13 

Richter's needle-holder 45 

Ridgling 46 

Ridgling, anomalous 48, 63 

Ridgling hoar 104 

Ridgling hull r 94 

Ridgling dog 128 

Ridgling castration, intra - abdominal, 

operative technic for 56 

Ridgling, intra-abdominal 48 

Ridgling, intra-inguinal 48, 61 

Ridgling, supra-scrotal 63 

Ridgling spreaders, Miles' 52 

Ridgling, suprascrotal 48 

Robinson's castrating knife 26 

Ruptured hoar 108 

Schirrous cord 75, 76, 77 

Scrotal hernia 44 

Scrotal incision 54 

Scrotal incision in hull castration 90 

Scissors, curved 46 

Scrotal incision for hoar 102 

Scrotum and sheath, stallion 23 

Season for castration 13 

Sequelae of castration 68 

Septic infection 68 

Sheath, edema of 73 

Shock following hitch spaying 200 

Skunk, deodorizing the 214 

Skunk, scent-secreting apparatus 215 

Sow, anatomy of 176 

Sow, cystic ovaries removed from 183 

Sow, restraint of 173, 174 

Sow, generative organs of 178 

Sow, spaying, operative technic of 178 

Sows, spaying 173 

Spaying 142 



Spaying hitch 189 

Spaying, calf 169 

Spaying, cat 201 

Spaying chute and stocks 153 

Spaying, cow, heifer and calf 153 

Spaying emasculator 159, 160, 161 

Spaying ewe 185 

Spaying knife, Jamison's 161 

Spaying sows 173 

Speculum, Paseley's spaying 148 

Speculum, Williams' spaying 148 

Spaying speculum, Williams' 148 

Spermatic cord, correct position of 

emasculator on 22 

Spermatic cord, severing of 25 

Stallion, anatomy of 17 

Stallion castration, instruments for 14 

Stallion, generative organs of 18 

Stallion, restraint of 13 

Standing position, advantages of 29 

Standing position, disadvantages of 30 

Standing position for bull castration. .92, 93 
Standing position for stallion castra- 
tion 24 

Sterile gauze 53 

Sterilization of instruments 20 

Suprascrotal ridgling 48, 63 

Surgical jelly 54 

Suture in bitch spaying 197 

Suture, purse-string 113 

Sutures, interrupted 114, 167 

Suturing fork 161 

Swine and sheep emasculator 101 

Testicle and spermatic cord 19 

Testicles of hoar 101 

Testicle of bull , 87 

Testicle of cat 132 

Testicles of fowl 137 

Testicle of mule 42 

Testicle of ram 118 

Testicle from ridgling bull 95 

Testicle of ridgling horse 61 

Testicle of stallion 19 

Tetanus 68 



Uterine sound 



.190 



Water bag 80, 82 

White's ideal casting harness 218 

Williams' castrating knife 13 

Williams' castrating knife, modified 26 

Wound protection after bitch spaying.. 

201, 202 

Wound retractor 189 



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